A saltwater crocodile measuring more than three meters in length was spotted this weekend at the North Rockhampton Golf Club, located just a few kilometers from the Fitzroy River. This waterway is designated to host rowing and canoe sprint competitions during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. The sighting has triggered fresh discussions regarding the safety of the planned venue, as it represents the fourth crocodile reported in the area since mid-September.
Ray Ebert, a senior official with Rowing Australia, described the incident as a shock and a wake-up call for organizers. Speaking to ABC, he emphasized that the primary concern lies not with visible reptiles, but with those that remain unseen in the water. In response to the controversy, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli defended the selection of Rockhampton, citing the city's decades of experience and its world-class facilities. He noted that the location had previously passed an independent technical assessment with flying colors in September.
Despite the government's stance, opposition leader Steven Miles has demanded the publication of the underlying safety report, specifically requesting details on how crocodile risks will be managed during the Games. The environmental authority in northeastern Queensland is currently investigating the recent sighting to determine if the animal needs to be captured and removed. John Lever, a reptile expert who operates a crocodile farm near Rockhampton, has advocated for the removal of all crocodiles from the vicinity of the Olympic course.
The Fitzroy River is a known habitat for numerous saltwater crocodiles, but concerns extend beyond wildlife. Critics have also pointed to strong currents, frequent flooding, and high sediment levels in the river as potential hazards. These issues prompted more than 500 rowers, including Australian Olympic champion Drew Ginn, to sign an open letter calling for the events to be relocated to a different site in southeastern Queensland.
Sources: Der Spiegel.