The 2032 Olympic Games may seem to be a long way off but a task force of regional leaders has already been formed with the objective of identifying how the Toowoomba region can benefit from the vast capital expenditure needed to host the Games.

One exciting piece of infrastructure being floated by Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio is the prospect of the long awaited fast train connection from Toowoomba to Brisbane.

Mayor Antonio believes there are many ancillary benefits to come from the 2032 games for the Toowoomba region with the fast rail being one such project.

Members of the inaugural task force include Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Ali Davenport, TSBE colleague Mark Mason, Toowoomba Mayor Paul Antonio, Western Downs Regional Councillor Kylie Bourne, Todd Rohl (Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce), Peter Holman (Southern Queensland Country Tourism), TAFE South West Queensland Michele Berkhout, Damien Bell (Wagner Corporation), Willows Health Group’s Troy Morgan, and Mark McErvale (Aspect Group).

Members of the task force said they were excited about the opportunities that would flow from the Games.

Some of the opportunities may include infrastructure projects, upgrades to sporting facilities, and the chance to create a legacy for regional Queensland.

“During the games there will be millions of visitors coming to this part of the world and we want to harness every opportunity to promote our region both before they come and while they are here.” Ali Davenport said.

Task force member Kylie Bourne said, ”I am always excited to see opportunities for our region and the Olympic games has so much potential before, during and after the event.

“What an incredible legacy it would be if people decided to stay on here after the games are over”.

Whatever infrastructure benefits come to the region as a result of the 2032 Olympic Games, there is no doubt the construction of a fast rail connection to Brisbane would be a gold medal prize for the region.

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 18 August 2022.