Scenic Rim committee reaffirms Lake Wyaralong as Queensland’s legacy-ready choice

The Scenic Rim's Olympic Sport and Recreation Advisory Committee has welcomed findings of the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) 100-Day Review, noting that key stakeholder engagement has successfully addressed earlier concerns about the preferred rowing venue for the Brisbane 2032 Games.

The Committee, which includes Olympian Madeleine Haselgrove and respected rowing veteran Ray 'Razor' Ebert, is confident that Lake Wyaralong is still the most cost-viable, athlete-supported, and legacy-effective venue to host rowing events for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Lake Wyaralong is already delivering for Queensland,” said Scenic Rim Regional Council Councillor Marshall Chalk, Advisory Committee Chair and former NRL player.

Olympian Madeleine Haselgrove added: “Lake Wyaralong has been part of Queensland’s rowing journey for over a decade now, I was one of the first to train there, preparing for the World Championships out of a shipping container. With Brisbane 2032 ahead, we have a rare chance to create a true legacy for our sport, at home.

"Imagine Queensland hosting nationals again, like we last did in 2001, and future generations - maybe even my own children - racing on a world-class Olympic course within driving distance from home.”

Purpose-built for flatwater rowing, Lake Wyaralong hosts many of the state’s premier rowing events, including the upcoming Queensland Schools' Championship Regatta, UniSport Australia Nationals Regatta and the Queensland Grade Championship Regatta later this year.

Located within the South East Queensland Olympic Zone, it offers significant advantages in terms of cost-efficiency, athlete access, planning, and legacy infrastructure.

“Rowing must remain in Queensland,” Cr Chalk said.

“Lake Wyaralong delivers real value for money and a lasting legacy for our sporting future.”

Since the GIICA 100-Day Review, substantial progress has been made to further strengthen Lake Wyaralong’s readiness.

Earlier logistical concerns have been addressed, and accommodation for more than 1,500 athletes and officials has been secured across the Scenic Rim and Logan—each within a convenient 35-minute travel time to the venue.

The Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Rowing Queensland and Rowing Australia in preparing for 2032, while also continuing to develop Lake Wyaralong as

a year-round hub for sport, tourism, and community engagement.

“We look forward to welcoming the rowing community to Lake Wyaralong for all their scheduled events—including the Queensland State Championships held later this year,” Cr Chalk added.

“This venue was built for this purpose and is ready to host the 2032 Brisbane Games."

Beyond sport, the Scenic Rim region continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination of choice, recognised globally as an ECO Certified Destination and home to World Heritage-listed national parks, thriving food and wine experiences, and a vibrant tourism economy—all less than an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

“We’re excited about what lies ahead, and we remain committed to supporting a Games that reflects smart investment, sustainability, and genuine community benefit,” Cr Chalk said.

“Lake Wyaralong is ready—and Queensland deserves to keep rowing where it belongs: right here.”