Eight recruits to shape Toowoomba’s Olympic legacy

Toowoomba’s Olympic taskforce management committee was revealed today, with members excited about the opportunities set to flow into this region as a result of the 2032 Games in Brisbane.

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

“During the Olympic 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,” TSBE Chief Executive Officer Ali Davenport said.

“We have so much to offer here in terms of tourism, sport, food and culture for instance, and the people on the taskforce have a diverse skill set to recognise and capitalise on those opportunities.”

The members of the inaugural taskforce were selected from a high quality field of applicants, and Ms Davenport will be joined by TSBE colleague Mark Mason,  TRC mayor Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio, Western Downs Regional Councillor Kylie Bourne, Todd Rohl (Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce), Peter Homan (Southern Queensland Country Tourism), TAFE Southwest Queensland Michele Berkhout, Damian Bell (Wagner Corporation), Willows Health Group Troy Morgan, and Mark McErvale (Aspect Group).

The group will meet next month to appoint a chair and establish goals for the next 10 years.

“This is not just about sport but about how we can showcase our region to the rest of the world,” Cr Antonio said.

“There are so many ancillary benefits that this region could gain as a result of the 2032 Games, such as a fast rail to Toowoomba which is so essential for the future. And just imagine what an outstanding opportunity it would be for us if the Toowoomba Showground were to be upgraded to a world class facility to host the equestrian events.”

The broader region is also set to benefit from the work of the taskforce, with Western Downs Regional Councillor Kylie Bourne recognising the unique possibilities the Olympic Games will bring.

“I am always excited to see opportunities for our region, and the Olympic Games has so much potential before, during and after the actual event,” Ms Bourne said.

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