Toowoomba’s Olympics legacy still on track – despite recent setback

Off the back of the recent decision that the redevelopment of the Toowoomba Stadium will not go ahead following the release of the 60-day Sport Venue Review of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) Olympic Strategy Project Manager, Mark Mason says that we must continue to focus on getting Games ready and understanding the opportunities for our region.

“We continue to actively work with all stakeholders on what the Games mean for Toowoomba, and there are plenty of opportunities ripe for the picking,” said Mr Mason.

As a region we continue to build our major event delivery capability – including with the upcoming Toowoomba Marathon and International Women’s Rugby 7’s Tournament to be delivered in the region this year. These events allow the region to be Games ready to play our part in the delivery of the Games in 2032. This preparedness will allow us to explore other opportunities with Games partners.

Olympic opportunity and legacy aren’t just about sport, TSBE’s work continues across industries to prepare local supply chain, particularly in the food and beverage space, to meet the requirements of the Games - noting the commitment to a carbon positive Games in 2032.

There is also opportunity to be explored with local sporting bodies and clubs to contribute to volunteer workforce and management. 

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Geoff McDonald says, “despite the recent news, this isn’t the end of the road. We have incredible potential in our region, and I will continue to support TSBE and our community in advocating for our slice of Olympics action.”

Despite the Toowoomba Staduim redevelopment being taken off the table, TSBE is dedicated to leading the advocacy for funding for the immediate delivery of the Toowoomba Equestrian Centre (TEC) at the Toowoomba Showgrounds. TSBE applauds the work of the RASQ on this project so far and will continue to support the RASQ to secure funding for the project. It is important to note that the project must be delivered for the benefit of the community first and foremost and The Games will fit around the use of the venue. This will ensure our Olympic legacy opportunities are spread across the community for a long time to come.

TSBE will be looking to deliver an Olympics specific event for our members and stakeholders later in 2024.