Michelle Landry (Capricornia, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to speak about an extraordinary opportunity for Central Queensland and for our nation—the decision for Rockhampton to host rowing, pararowing, canoe sprint and paracanoe events on the Fitzroy River as part of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is more than a sporting announcement. It's a vote of confidence in our region, in our people and in the great future of Central Queensland. For years our community has known what Rockhampton has to offer. We have the natural assets, we have the determination and we have a proud sporting culture that runs right across our region. Now the rest of the country and indeed the world will have the chance to see it too.

The Fitzroy River has long been an important training and competition venue, and, with the right upgrades, it will bring world class competition to our backyard. Just as importantly, it will leave a legacy long after the closing ceremony. Planned improvements to the flatwater facility, support for grassroots sports and better connectivity through projects like the Rockhampton Ring Road will help ensure the benefits are felt not just during the games but for decades to come.

This is exactly what regional Australia deserves—a real seat at the table when it comes to major national opportunities. These games should not belong to Brisbane alone; they should belong to all of Queensland, and that absolutely includes Rockhampton and the wider Capricornia region. Hosting these events will put our region on the world stage and will shine a spotlight on our local businesses, our tourism operators, our sporting clubs and our volunteers who will inspire the next generation of young athletes from Central Queensland to believe that the road to the Olympics can begin right here at home. It will also drive investment, create jobs and strengthen community pride. We know the value of projects that leave something meaningful behind, and this is why opportunities matter so much. It's about stronger infrastructure, more visitors, more economic activity and more chances for local people. It's about making sure regional communities are not an afterthought but a priority.

I want to acknowledge all those who have worked so hard to back these visions: the local clubs, the community advocates, the councils and those across government who understand that when regional Queensland succeeds, the whole nation benefits. Rockhampton has earned this opportunity, and our community will rise to it. I will always fight to make sure Central Queensland gets its fair share, and this is one of those moments where we should be proud, united and ambitious for what comes next.

I'd particularly like to thank my LNP colleagues who have helped make this happen: Donna Kirkland, the member for Rockhampton; Senator Matthew Canavan; Nigel Hutton, the member for Keppel; Glen Kelly, the member for Mirani; and the Queensland Premier and Deputy Premier. Rockhampton is ready. Central Queensland is ready. I say let us get on with it and bring Olympic glory to the Fitzroy River.

See this speech in context