TINGALPA Creek could soon become an unlikely Olympic venue with plans quietly progressing to reinstall flood gates and transform the waterway into a world-class rowing course ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
The proposal is gaining traction amid growing doubts over the suitability of Rockhampton as the host venue, with State Government insiders suggesting alternative locations are now firmly back on the table.
Authorities are reportedly investigating the return of flood gates at the Leslie Harrison Dam spanning the Tingalpa Creek to regulate water levels and create a calm, competition-ready stretch between Tingalpa and Capalaba.
The proposal would effectively allow sections of the creek to be “held” at consistent depths, eliminating tidal fluctuations and creating ideal rowing conditions.
A State Government spokesperson familiar with early planning discussions said the proposal would further strengthen the Redlands and Bayside’s standing as a high-performance sporting precinct.
“The region is already home to key elite sporting infrastructure, including the Belmont Shooting Centre, the Chandler velodrome and the proposed Redland Whitewater Centre at Birkdale, and there is now a clear opportunity to position it as a host for Olympic rowing,” the spokesperson said.
“Such a development would elevate the Redlands and Bayside as a globally recognised sporting destination.”
Under the proposal, the four spillway gates at Leslie Harrison Dam which were controversially removed in 2014 would be reinstalled.
The controlled waterway would then be widened and straightened in sections, with temporary grandstands, athlete facilities and media platforms installed along key viewing points along the Tingalpa Creek.
Early concept sketches — yet to be publicly released — show a finish line with the picturesque Leslie Harrison Dam in the background.
The idea has gained traction in recent weeks as confidence wanes around Rockhampton’s ability to deliver a suitable Olympic rowing course, with concerns reportedly centred on logistics, travel distances and long-term legacy use.
Some councillors have welcomed the proposal as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the Redlands Coast on a global stage.
Deputy Mayor Julie Talty said the concept had the potential to deliver both international exposure and long-term local benefits.
“The prospect of hosting Olympic rowing along Tingalpa Creek presents a unique opportunity to highlight the Redlands Coast to a global audience,” Cr Talty said.
Others, however, have questioned the feasibility of the plan, particularly given the creek’s tidal nature and history of flooding.
“How exactly are they going to turn Tingalpa Creek into an Olympic venue?” one councillor said.
Concerns have also been raised about potential environmental impacts, with sections of the creek home to sensitive ecosystems and wildlife.
Despite the scepticism, those behind the proposal insist the plan “stacks up” with feasibility studies underway.
Cr Talty said the proposal aligned with broader infrastructure planning associated with the Olympic lead-up, including the proposed Redland Whitewater Centre at Birkdale.
“There is significant focus at present on delivering a lasting legacy through Olympic-related infrastructure,” Cr Talty said.
“It would strengthen the case for critical transport investment, including an extension of the Brisbane Metro to Capalaba, to service both the Redland Whitewater Centre and any future Olympic rowing facility.
“This is about ensuring any investment creates enduring benefits for the community well beyond the Games.”
If approved, reconstruction of the dam gates could begin as early as 2028, leaving a tight turnaround before the opening ceremony four years later.
Happy April Fools’ Day from the Local Redland Bayside News.
