Allora Show Society is moving ahead with an attempt to become involved in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games after discussing the potential for a multi-function stables complex at the showgrounds.
It is anticipated that the complex would cost around $1.5 million and would become a valuable asset at the showgrounds beyond the Olympics.
The Show Society has the support of Member for Southern Downs, James Lister and Southern Downs Regional Council.
There would be an Equestrian Queensland connection with the proposal.
It sought a meeting with the Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander.
The move lines up with the acceptance of Toowoomba as a major Equestrian venue for the Games, forming a hub for the sport.
The Show Society is looking at a complex to house 60 horses along with four internal wash bays, disabled facilities and unisex amenities.
A meeting of the Show Society was told that feedback from the Ministry has been positive.
It is believed a presentation to the Minister’s office provided everything it wanted to see and hear.
There will be 46 Olympic Equestrian teams and it is proposed that Allora would play host to one of these.
If it was required to host a second team, a second arena would be needed.
Should the Allora Show Society receive the go-ahead, it would need to secure a deposit of $200,000 to be eligible.
President Carol Lyall said while this would look to be a huge task, on the face of it, it is a very achievable dollar value with fundraising and co-contribution from sponsors.
Sports and Recreation Grants open for applications this month with a Games On Grant being offered through a tender process.
The Show Society was told that all existing community events at the showgrounds would remain in place.
Beyond the Olympic Games, the proposed complex would be seen as a venue for high end equestrian events at Allora and that financially, it would be a very good earner for the Show Society.
This article appeared in Allora Advertiser, 21 January 2026.
