RQ takes next step in Deagon Racecourse development plan

Racing Queensland has taken the next step in its master planning process for a Brisbane racecourse with a view to establishing a multipurpose training centre.

Deagon Racecourse on Board St. Picture: Michelle Smith

RACING Queensland has taken the next step in its Deagon Racecourse master planning process by appointing a town planner and architect to assist with the project.

In July last year, RQ announced it would start concept master planning at Deagon with a view to establishing a multipurpose State Training Centre.

The centre is viewed as a key solution to declining residential stabling numbers in southeast Queensland, along with providing a training environment for apprentice jockeys and stable hands.

The stables at Deagon Racecourse on Racecourse Rd. Picture: Michelle Smith

Urbis and Cox Architecture have been appointed to assist RQ with its community engagement activities throughout the year, ensuring stakeholder views are understood and to help shape the master planning process.

Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the appointment of a town planner and architect was an important milestone in the master planning process.

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“Under the RQ proposal, the State Training Centre would serve as a state-of-the-art equine precinct, supporting the heritage requirements placed on Deagon to maintain its status as a racing and sporting precinct,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Just as importantly, however, they have committed to working with their technical advisers and the community to explore what additional uses could compliment the site.”

An aerial view of Deagon Racecourse.

Those additional uses could include community sporting facilities, farmers markets, dining, retail, entertainment and accommodation.

Mr Hinchliffe said final uses would be determined through a comprehensive land use assessment and subsequent consideration of suitability by RQ prior to any lodgement of a development application.

RQ CEO Brendan Parnell said he was pleased to see the project taking its next steps.

Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell. Picture: Steve Holland

“We’d like to quadruple the current stable numbers at Deagon, so it’s great to see the project advancing,” Mr Parnell said.

“The declining stabling numbers in South East Queensland is one of our real challenges and the establishment of a multipurpose State Training Centre is viewed as a key solution.

“Additionally, it would also allow us to create a world-class training and education environment for our participants and usher in a new era for racing in Queensland.”

In coming months, the technical consultants will provide RQ with a clearer understanding of the site constraints, along with the opportunities contained within the Deagon Racecourse precinct.

During this time, they will engage with various stakeholders to provide preliminary information on the project.

Local residents will also have the opportunity to provide input, most likely later in the year.

RQ will also liaise with Brisbane City Council in relation to the Sandgate District Neighbourhood Plan, which is currently being updated.