A flatwater rowing precinct at Lawnton has been thrown up as an optional venue for rowing at the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
Moreton Bay Council says the precinct is a ‘solid alternative’ for rowing and paddle sports at the Games and beyond.
Rowing and canoeing are due to take place on the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton which is in crocodile territory, a fact that has been source of criticism.
World Rowing and the International Canoe Federation have reportedly not signed off on Rockhampton as the venue due to technical concerns: click here for that story.
Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery says their proposal to turn the precinct into the state home of rowing beyond the Games should be taken seriously.
“This is not about a single moment in 2032,” he says. “It’s about creating infrastructure that is used every day (and) supports future generations … long after the Games are over.”
He points out that the precinct will be of international standard with access to Petrie station and its rail services to the CBD and airport.
Click here to read the full document of the proposal.
FLATWATER PRECINCT POSSIBILITES
Council also says building and construction materials company Boral is helping develop the flatwater precinct given its experience with Penrith Lakes venue used in the 2000 Olympics.
“Together, we see the potential for a world class facility based in Queensland that will … meet the dire need of 5000 SEQ registered rowers and support daily community use, school programs, club competitions and high-performance pathways,” Flannery says.
He also spells out future projects on the site with even more facilities, an urban koala reserve and foot connections to Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre (Games venue) and new lakeside suburb.
“We are serious. This is about putting forward a credible and well-developed proposal, strongly supported by sporting bodies, delivery partners and athletes, focused on doing what is right for the sport and for Queensland’s legacy beyond the Games.”
Rowing Queensland CEO Anthea O’Loughlin backs the plan, saying the flatwater precinct could transform the sport in Queensland by giving it a permanent post-games legacy.
Delivery partner Boral said the precinct has “strong fundamentals” for long-term use beyond the Games.
“Our focus is on ensuring infrastructure is fit-for-purpose for long-term use, not just for the Games,” said Boral’s Executive General Manager Property, Planning and Environment, Kate Jackson.
Flannery says council is now seeking formal consideration of the precinct and says it welcomes an independent assessment.
