State Equestrian Centre for Caboolture: Fraser

22 August 2007

State Equestrian Centre for Caboolture: Fraser

Caboolture will be the site of a new $3.52 million State Equestrian Centre designed to host state, national and international competition.

The state government will contribute up to $1.76 million towards the facility, to be based at the Caboolture Showgrounds/Alex Barr Reserve.

Sport Minister Andrew Fraser and Glass House MP Carolyn Male said the centre will boost equestrian sport in Queensland – attracting competitors from around the nation and the world – and give a significant economic boost to the region.

Mr Fraser said the centre would complement existing cross country and polocrosse facilities in Warwick and other specialist facilities at Toowoomba.

“As a result, collectively South East Queensland we will have top class facilities for equestrian sports,” Mr Fraser said.

Ms Male, who actively lobbied for the centre to be established in the Glass House electorate, said it would be built on existing facilities at Caboolture Showgrounds which currently include an indoor arena and warm-up area, five outdoor competition areas, 214 stables and 150 powered camp sites.

“The new centre will feature a main covered arena with seating for 4,000 spectators, a commentators box, judges box, first aid room, 20 wash bays and a warm-up arena,” Ms Male said.

“Additionally the new development will include 150 new stables, a cross country course, VIP catering and meeting rooms, more camp sites and scoreboards for the main arena.”

Mr Fraser said there had been steep competition for the centre but ultimately Caboolture’s proposal was the most appropriate.

“A total of 12 proposals were received from the South East Queensland and Darling Downs region which were subject to thorough, rigorous assessment.

“Caboolture was successful because of its development concept, location, previous equestrian experience, existing infrastructure and investment commitment.

“I’m confident this new centre will make equestrian sports even more accessible, particularly because it is in close proximity to Brisbane airport and major highways.”

The new centre is expected to be completed by September 2009.

Media contact Chris Taylor or Chris Ward 3227 8825