Gina Rinehart Lobbies for 2032 Olympic Rowing Relocation to 2026

Gina Rinehart, Australia's richest person, lobbied for controversial plans to host 2032 Olympic rowing events on the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton, according to documents released by the Queensland government. This move, which would send rowers 600km north of Brisbane, has sparked major backlash due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles and technical concerns.

Controversial Rowing Relocation Plan

The Queensland government announced the relocation in March last year, but the newly elected government's venues review, finalized in early 2025, actually recommended moving rowing to Sydney's Penrith facility. Despite this, the government chose Rockhampton, breaking election promises not to build a new stadium.

International and Australian rowing officials have raised multiple concerns, including the risk of the facility becoming a white elephant and failing to meet strict technical requirements for currents, water quality, and weeds.

Rinehart's Lobbying Efforts

An undated letter from Rinehart to Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, obtained by Brisbane Times, lobbies for the relocation. Rinehart, a key backer of One Nation with extensive mining and pastoral interests, argues for central Queensland's benefits.

Bleijie has stated rowing will be held in Rockhampton or cancelled, creating a standoff with the Olympic community.

Key Concerns and Comparisons

Key Takeaways

• Rinehart's lobbying influenced the decision to move rowing to Rockhampton.
• The move contradicts the venues review's recommendation for Sydney.
• Crocodile habitat and technical issues pose serious challenges.
• Political brinkmanship may lead to cancellation of rowing events.

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