New Olympic sports precinct is a “no brainer”

Plans have been released for a new sport precinct which could bring Olympic rowing to the City of Moreton Bay. Council has unveiled its Flatwater Rowing Precinct as a possible rowing and paddle sports venue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond. 

Using existing lakes at Moreton Bay Central (formerly The Mill) in Petrie, Mayor Peter Flannery said Council’s plan should be taken seriously as an Olympic alternative.

Controversy has surrounded plans for rowing and canoeing on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton where there are reported to be crocodiles. World Rowing and the International Canoe Federation are also carrying out technical assessments on the proposed river venue.

“This is not about a single moment in 2032,” the Mayor said. “It is about creating infrastructure used every day, supports future generations and leaves Queensland stronger long after the Games are over.

“Our proposal provides the International Olympic Committee and the State and Federal Governments, a cost effective, ready-made solution to keep rowing in Queensland.

“Having an international standard flatwater rowing and paddle sports venue in the heart of South-East Queensland, with public transport via Petrie rail station, half hour to Brisbane CBD via train and under 40 minutes to Brisbane Airport, is a no brainer.”

Rowing Queensland CEO Anthea O’Loughlin backed City of Moreton Bay’s plan saying a permanent rowing home in South-East Queensland with public transport connections and accommodation would transform the sport.

In a unique partnership, Council today also committed to supporting development of the Precinct with Boral, who have delivered flatwater infrastructure, including Penrith Lakes development used for the 2000 Olympics.

“Together, we see the potential for a world class facility based in Queensland that will exceed the current capacity of Penrith as a Category A facility,” Mayor Flannery said.

“It meets the dire need of our 5000 SEQ registered rowers and supports daily community use, school programs, club competitions and high-performance pathways.”

Boral’s Executive General Manager Property, Planning and Environment, Kate Jackson said: “Our focus is on ensuring infrastructure is fit-for-purpose, deliverable and designed for long-term use, not just for the Games.”

The site will include additional recreation and sporting facilities, an urban koala reserve, pedestrian connections to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic venue Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre and a new lakeside residential community.

Mayor Flannery said the proposal meets international Category A standard credentials and aligns with International Olympic Committee principles for permanent venues to demonstrate clear long-term demand, sustainability and community benefit.

City of Moreton Bay is now seeking formal consideration and assessment of the Flatwater Precinct through the appropriate Olympic and technical review processes.