Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Media Release, 18 August 2021
A state-of-the-art Equine Precinct in the heart of the Lockyer Valley is now one step closer, after Council today moved to endorse the Business Case for the project.
The proposed Precinct would see the redevelopment of the current 54-hectare Lockyer Valley Turf Club into a multi-use Equine Precinct by the Lockyer Valley Racing and Equine Collaborative.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Deputy Mayor, Cr Jason Cook said the endorsement of the Business Case was another step forward in bringing this world-class equine facility to life.
“The prospect of a multi-use racing and equine precinct right here in the Lockyer Valley is an exciting step for our community, and one that as a Council we are really excited about.
“The Lockyer Valley Equine Collaborative has been actively working towards developing this Precinct, with the masterplan jointly funded by each of the stakeholders in the Collaborative.
“This would be a first in Queensland to dedicate an entire facility to equine integrating racing, equestrian tourism and community activities.
“A facility of this calibre in our backyard would be a game changer, not just for racing and equine groups, but for the entire Lockyer Valley community and would position our region as a global destination for tourism, trade and investment and help to boost our local economy,” Cr Cook said.
Stage 1a of the project is estimated at $29.5 million and includes bulk earthworks, including lowering the centre of the racetrack by up to four metres, a new 25 metre racetrack, 200 day stalls and a tunnel for centre ring activation and pedestrian access. Stage 1b is estimated at $11.5 million and incorporates the roof and basket structure, which will be an iconic centrepiece to overlook the entire site and provide administration and function activities.
Cr Cook said the Precinct would create opportunities for pre-Olympic training and a post-Olympic legacy for the equine industry, enable growth in both racing and equine industries and be able to incorporate new off-the-track racing programs.
“Council, together with the other stakeholders, including the Lockyer Valley Turf Club, Racing and Equestrian Industries have made a financial commitment to the Business Case, to get this project up and running.
“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics now in the bag, this Precinct brings with it a very real opportunity for a regional legacy and contribution to the equestrian elements in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games and is a great opportunity to bring forward infrastructure investment that our growing region needs.
“This is an exciting development for our entire region; the potential here really is endless,” Cr Cook said.
