What’s happening?
The Queensland Government has officially launched the 2032 Delivery Plan, confirming Rockhampton’s key role in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As part of the plan, Rockhampton is set to host Olympic and Paralympic rowing and canoe sprint events on the Fitzroy River and provide accommodation for athletes in a newly developed Athlete Village at the Railyards Rejuvenation precinct.
These announcements position Rockhampton as a central hub in Queensland’s Olympic legacy—extending the Games well beyond Brisbane and into the heart of regional Queensland.
Why it matters?
This is more than just a sporting event—it’s a strategic investment in Rockhampton’s future. Through upgraded infrastructure, improved connectivity, new tourism initiatives and support for grassroots sport, the 2032 Delivery Plan sets Rockhampton up for generational benefits.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Games would deliver for every Queenslander: “These Games are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver an infrastructure, tourism and grassroots sports legacy to benefit all of Queensland.”
“Delivering 2032 and Beyond sets the plan to build much more than what’s needed for a few weeks of competition. This is a plan that builds for our future, ensuring regional communities continue to benefit for decades to come.”
“Come 2032, through better connectivity and the right infrastructure, Rockhampton will be ready to open its doors not only to the Games but to more tourists, more employment and more opportunities.”
Local Impact
The 2032 Delivery Plan places Rockhampton in the box seat to secure:
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Upgrades to the Rockhampton Fitzroy Rowing Club to support elite-level rowing and canoe sprint events on the Fitzroy River.
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A newly constructed Athlete Village at the revitalised Railyards Rejuvenation precinct, which will later be transformed into permanent housing.
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A share in the $250 million Games On! program to enhance local grassroots sport and community clubs.
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Critical upgrades to the Bruce Highway, including the Rockhampton Ring Road, as part of a $9 billion transport investment connecting Brisbane to Cairns.
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Enhanced positioning in Queensland’s 20-year tourism strategy, designed to attract visitors before, during, and after the Games.
By the numbers:
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$7.1 billion dedicated to the Olympic and Paralympic venue capital works across Queensland.
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$250 million committed to support grassroots sports clubs through the Games On! program.
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$9 billion investment in Bruce Highway upgrades, including the Rockhampton Ring Road, to improve safety, connectivity, and flood resilience.
Zoom In
The Fitzroy River, already a beloved local landmark, will become a world-stage venue for Olympic rowing and canoe sprint events. These upgrades will not only cater to international competition but will also strengthen the city’s capacity to host future regional, state, and national events—benefitting local clubs and young athletes.
The new Athlete Village will breathe life into the Railyards Rejuvenation precinct, providing a dual-purpose investment: elite accommodation during the Games, and long-term housing solutions for the Rockhampton community after the closing ceremony.
Zoom Out
The Delivery Plan affirms that the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be for all Queenslanders. Regional cities from Cairns to Townsville, Toowoomba to the Whitsundays, and now Rockhampton, will share in the excitement—and the long-term benefits.
Chairman of the Games Authority Stephen Conry praised the community’s involvement in shaping the Plan:
“We thank the many thousands of Queenslanders who took the opportunity to have their say during the 100 Day Review… While we couldn’t accept every proposal, all opinions played a role in forming our final report.”
“The Olympic and Paralympic Games are the world’s biggest event, which will bring a world of opportunity… from infrastructure and tourism to business stimulus and workforce uplift.”
What to look for next?
The next phase includes detailed design and construction milestones for the Fitzroy River upgrades and Railyards precinct development. Community engagement will continue as project delivery ramps up. Rockhampton residents can expect timeline announcements, funding allocations, and employment opportunities as the city steps into its Olympic future.
Stay updated at www.qld.gov.au/delivering2032.
