Council calls to open Wivenhoe Dam over 2032 Olympics uncertainty

Published on 12 February 2026

RECENT developments surrounding the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games rowing venue have reignited discussion about the suitability of existing infrastructure across Queensland.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said Wivenhoe Dam should be reopened by the State Government for rowing ahead of 2032 and would save taxpayers tens of millions of dollars.

The rowing events are currently proposed for Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River. However, approval has not yet been granted by World Rowing or the International Canoe Federation, who have cited concerns relating to the river’s depth, shape and flow.

Despite public assurance from Sports Minister Tim Mander and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie that the venue will proceed as planned, alternative locations continue to emerge.

Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery has confirmed his council has prepared concept designs for a new rowing facility at a quarry site in Lawnton should a replacement venue be required.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said these discussions echo the position his council has held since 2024, when Somerset Regional Council called on the State Government to open Wivenhoe Dam for greater recreational use ahead of the 2032 Games.

“We are less than 60 minutes from Brisbane CBD and have areas on the dam that have been used for competition rowing previously right here that could be reopened at very little cost,” Cr Wendt said.

“Doing so would save taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. Forget Rockhampton, forget Moreton Bay - right here in Somerset, we have the facilities ready to go.”