What’s happening?
Crews from the Outback Rowing Regatta convoy took to the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton this morning, Thursday 2 October, reviving the much-loved “King of the Fitzroy” race as part of their inland journey. The stop gave participants the chance to test the waters on a course that will play a role in Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games preparations.
Why it matters
The convoy, travelling from Brisbane through Rockhampton and Emerald before reaching Barcaldine and Longreach, is helping regional communities connect with rowing. This event gave local rowers and visitors the chance to experience the Fitzroy, one of Queensland’s most significant waterways, in a new light.
Local Impact
The Fitzroy River, long a training ground for local crews, is gaining national and international attention as part of Olympic preparations. Today’s row showed the excitement that the upcoming Games is already bringing to regional Queensland.
By the numbers
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More than 100km of river channels make up the Fitzroy system, a key waterway in Central Queensland.
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Brisbane 2032 is expected to bring more than 2.7 million spectators to Olympic events across the state.
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Outback Rowing’s convoy covers over 1,000km, from Brisbane through Rockhampton to the outback.
Zoom In
Rowers were quick to praise the Fitzroy’s beauty and potential. One participant said, “Beautiful, looking forward to hopefully watch the Olympic happens in this course, it’s amazing. So lucky to have the convoy arrived just in time to enjoy the course for a week.”
Another rower added, “Oh it is just a beautiful spot, it’s really fantastic to get out here and try it before the Olympic in 2032.”
Zoom Out
Outback Rowing’s Bush Towns Programs and Bush Boats are helping grow the sport in communities that have never rowed before. The convoy highlights how regional stops like Rockhampton are not just stepping stones, but central to building momentum for the sport nationwide.
What to look for next
The convoy now continues inland to Emerald, Barcaldine, and Longreach, with more rowing stops and community regattas planned before the Bentleys’ Australian Outback Rowing Regatta.
