Excitement builds for Toowoomba’s Games debut

Excitement is building across the Darling Downs ahead of Toowoomba’s Olympic and Paralympic debut in 2032. 

The GIICA team recently visited the 160 plus-year-old Equestrian Centre at the Toowoomba Showgrounds which is set to undergo a major transformation to become the centrepiece for equestrian events at the 2032 Games. 

GIICA CEO Simon Crooks joined the team at Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland for a site tour to discuss the scope of the upgrades, which include new arenas and warm-up facilities, additional and improved stables, new amenities and change rooms, and a lengthened cross-country course. 

These improvements will not only ensure the Showgrounds meet international competition standards, but also support athlete pathways, expand grassroots programs, and will position Toowoomba to host more state, national, and international events in the years ahead. 

The day began with a briefing to the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee Board, including President Andrew Liveris AO, CEO Cindy Hook, Queensland Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander MP, and Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells. Following the briefing, the GIICA team met with regional leaders from Toowoomba Regional Council, the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland, and Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise. 

As planning continues, GIICA remains committed to working closely with local partners to deliver infrastructure that reflects the pride and passion of the Darling Downs.