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Council approves replacement of Fitzroy River Rowing course

Fitzroy Rowing/ Photo by Matt Thompson from Rockhampton Fitzroy Rowing Club Inc. Facebook page

What’s happening?

Rockhampton Regional Council has officially adopted an action plan to replace the Fitzroy River Buoyed Rowing Course, securing its status as a premier rowing destination.

Following consultation with the Rowing Technical Advisory Group, comprised of national, state, and local representatives, an eight-lane facility will be built to meet the needs of the local rowing community and ensure readiness for the 2025 regatta season.

Why it matters?

The Fitzroy River is a key venue for major rowing events, providing economic and community benefits to the Rockhampton Region.

With the course damaged beyond repair last year, its replacement is essential for hosting championship events, supporting athletes, and driving tourism.

The new facility will also address operational risks and enable a robust schedule of state and national rowing events through to 2034.

Local Impact

Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford highlighted the importance of the course: “The decision to replace the buoyed rowing course with an eight-lane facility reflects our commitment to rowing and Council is working diligently to have the course ready in time for the 2025 regatta season. We understand the importance of this asset to our rowing community and the economic and community benefit that this sport can bring to our Region.”

CEO of Rowing Queensland, Matt Bialkowski, also praised the decision: “The continued support from Council for rowing will further strengthen the growth of our sport across Central Queensland via the reestablishment of a rowing course. Rowing Queensland is excited to bring the State Schools Championships to the Fitzroy River in 2025 and 2026, honouring our commitment to the local rowing community following the relocation of the Championship away from Rockhampton as a result of the August 2024 rain event.”

By the Numbers

  • $150,000: Estimated cost of replacing the rowing course.
  • 790 participants and 1,200 spectators: Expected attendance at the key 2025 regatta event.
  • $20,000: Council’s reallocated sponsorship funds from the 2025 Regatta to the project.

Zoom In

The Council’s approach will mitigate risks by limiting the time the course remains in the water, prioritising major regattas and national training camps.

They are also collaborating with key stakeholders to develop a framework for future ownership and operations of the course. “Rowing presents unique challenges for Council due to its environment, and while there is no magic solution, this plan carefully balances the immediate needs of the rowing community today and Council’s financial and operational responsibilities in the future,” Cr Rutherford explained.

Zoom Out

This redevelopment aligns with Rockhampton’s broader vision to position itself as a key sporting and cultural hub in Central Queensland.

Senator Matthew Canavan expressed his support: “Fantastic news today that the Rockhampton Regional Council have committed to fully rebuilding the Fitzroy River rowing course, which sadly was damaged beyond repair late last year. This means that Rocky will continue to host rowing championship events that bring in thousands of competitors and families, and deliver millions in economic benefit to the region.”

Local MP Michelle Landry was also commended for her lobbying efforts to make this project a reality.

Photo from Senator Matthew Canavan Facebook page

What to Look For Next?

Council aims to finalise the procurement process by mid-February 2025 to ensure construction is completed in time for the regatta season later in the year. The 2025 and 2026 State Schools Championships will mark the course’s return as a premier rowing venue.

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