Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has this week endorsed a submission to the Queensland Government’s 60 Day Independent Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Venue Master Plan Review in relation to on the potential upgrade of the Toowoomba Sports Ground.
As part of Queensland Premier Steven Miles’ 60-day review, being led by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, TRC was asked to provide a submission on potential economic benefits resulting from an upgrade to Toowoomba Sports Ground.
TRC General Manager of Environment and Community Services Nick Hauser said that while Council had decided at this week’s Ordinary Meeting to make a submission to the State Government on the potential project, any future decision on the upgrade proceeding sits firmly with the State.
“It is important for the community to understand that any upgrade to the Toowoomba Sports Ground will be a decision for the Queensland State Government who own and operate the venue and surrounding land. Council is not the decision-maker on the project proceeding or otherwise,” Mr Hauser said.
TRC’s submission to the 60-day review being led by Mr Quirk highlighted various economic benefits the Toowoomba region might gain should the State decide to proceed with an upgrade of the Toowoomba Sports Ground.
“Council’s submission will highlight what Council perceives as the potential legacy and economic benefits to the region should the Toowoomba Sports Ground be upgraded by the Queensland State Government.
“The submission focuses on a number of direct and indirect legacy opportunities that could come Toowoomba’s way should the State decide to upgrade their venue.
“The submission is completely separate to the State’s own Project Validation Report which is currently underway,” Mr Hauser said.
“As part of the review process, Council was also given the opportunity to highlight the Toowoomba Showgrounds and Equestrian Centre as a potential alternate Olympic and Paralympic Venue with the right investment by the State Government. Council has previously provided financial support for a business case, which has been completed, on the upgrade of the Showgrounds which could see it developed into the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre of Excellence,” Mr Hauser said.
