Croc sighting reignites debate over Games rowing venue

A crocodile sighting on the banks of the Fitzroy River has flagged a warning for local golfers and rowers in the upcoming Olympic.

Nov 02, 2026, updated Nov 02, 2026
Picture: via Facebook
Picture: via Facebook

A crocodile has been spotted on the banks of the Fitzroy River – the venue for 2032 Olympic Games Rowing – reigniting concerns for athlete safety.

A picture of the crocodile was shared by North Rockhampton Golf Club, warning golfers about an extra trap lurking on the 11th hole on Saturday afternoon.

The club is located directly across from the Fitzroy River Rowing Club.

Picture: via Facebook

“He’s just picking his front row seat to watch the rowing,” one user posted.

“Looks a bit over three metres. Should be four metres by 2032,” wrote another.

In September, Premier David Crisafulli said the river had passed a safety review to host the rowing and canoe sprint at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032.

The flat water course had faced criticism after locals had vocalised a stretch of the river was home to salt water crocodiles, but Crisafulli said it passed the review “with flying colours”.

Previously, almost 6000 people signed a petition for the venue to be changed due to concerns about athlete safety while potentially competing with crocodiles in the area.

The Olympic Games will take place in Brisbane from July 23 to August 8 in 2032. The Paralympic Games will follow from August 24 to September 5.

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