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politics1d ago
‘A big call for the IOC’: is the fight over Olympic rowing on Australia’s predator-infested Fitzroy River all a croc?
- Queensland officials publicly press the IOC to hold Olympic rowing in Rockhampton, warning the Fitzroy option may be dropped.
- World Rowing and Rowing Australia say the Fitzroy has not yet been assessed for technical requirements like weeds and water quality.
- Queensland’s deputy premier asserted the state will back Rockhampton as the rowing venue, signaling politics over venue choice.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had previously called the Fitzroy option not sensible due to crocodile habitat concerns.
- The report notes ongoing technical reviews by World Rowing to determine if Fitzroy meets racing requirements.
- The Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee declined to comment on the Fitzroy proposal.
- Rivals for rowing venues emerged in Rockhampton and Moreton Bay as competing bids surface.
- Experts say IOC pressure often follows a pattern of brinkmanship between hosts and the IOC.
- Historical context shows rowing has been a core Olympic sport since 1896, except for earlier disruptions.
- Experts say the IOC typically expects the best facilities and may relocate events if standards aren’t met.
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