Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River has been given the tick of approval as the rowing venue for the 2032 Games, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has revealed.

The central Queensland river, which is a crocodile habitat, has sparked debate since the state government pitched it in March last year to host rowing at the Brisbane Olympics.

On Thursday, Crisafulli said the International Olympic Committee assessment had been completed.

“It’s official, signed, sealed and delivered,” Crisafulli told parliament.

He said the decision meant the river would host Brisbane Games rowing, para rowing, canoe sprint and para canoe events.

The state government has been under mounting pressure to reconsider its nominated rowing venue.

While the Fitzroy River is a crocodile habitat, the main concerns about the venue had been its fairness, safety and sustainability.

However, Crisafulli said the Rockhampton flatwater course had been given the green light after a comprehensive and independent technical assessment by “renowned marine engineering experts”.

He said analysis showed the Fitzroy was a “secret weapon” because the course could be full width with room for start and finish areas.

“Rockhampton has a secret weapon – the Fitzroy won’t need widening, dredging or construction of a barrage, which was required for the Tokyo Games,” he said.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the government “made a promise to deliver the 2032 Games across all of Queensland, and that’s exactly what we’re doing”.

Marine surveyor WaterProof surveyed the riverbed and competition course, including river flows, water levels and wind, the statement said.

World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland said the Fitzroy River would deliver fair competition for athletes.

“Based on the extensive analysis undertaken, we now know that the Fitzroy River is capable of providing fair competition conditions during the period of the Games, consistent with the requirements of Olympic and Paralympic Rowing,” Rolland said.

Paddle Worldwide President Thomas Konietzko said technical work improved the organisation’s understanding of the location and “provides confidence” the course would deliver fair competition for athletes.

-with AAP