The Queensland Government has committed an initial $25 million to begin redeveloping spectator facilities at Eagle Farm Racecourse, setting the stage for a new grandstand to replace the ageing John Power Stand in Brisbane.
The funding marks the first phase of a broader redevelopment at Queensland’s premier thoroughbred venue, with demolition of the existing stand scheduled after the 2026 Winter Carnival. The John Power Stand is due to be decommissioned in August 2026, ending decades of use at the track.
The new grandstand forms part of The Next Lap, the Crisafulli Government’s plan for the future of Queensland racing. Alongside the Eagle Farm project, the plan includes a $200 million Racing Future Fund aimed at upgrading racing infrastructure across the state, supporting both metropolitan and regional venues.
According to the government, the new facility at Eagle Farm will feature modern amenities, improved accessibility and upgraded viewing areas designed to enhance the race-day experience for patrons. Eagle Farm has long been regarded as the centrepiece of Queensland thoroughbred racing, hosting major events including the Winter Carnival.
Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander said the condition of the existing grandstand meant action was overdue.
“Eagle Farm is Queensland thoroughbred racing’s spiritual home, and the government is delivering a facility befitting the state’s premier track,” he said. He also criticised the previous Labor government, arguing it failed to address ageing infrastructure or provide long-term stability for the racing sector.
The racing industry contributes an estimated $2.5 billion to the Queensland economy and supports thousands of jobs, from trainers and jockeys to hospitality and event staff. The government says its reforms are intended to improve infrastructure, strengthen integrity measures and lift animal welfare standards, while protecting country racing.
Racing Queensland chief executive Lachlan Murray said securing the $25 million allocation from the Racing Infrastructure Fund provided certainty to move forward with planning and procurement.
“Having the funding secured allows us to lay out the timing to begin phase one of the works,” he said, noting tenders could now be prepared ahead of demolition starting once the 2026 Winter Carnival concludes. He said the completed stand would offer an improved experience for racegoers.
Brisbane Racing Club chairman Richard Morrison also welcomed the funding, while acknowledging the challenges involved in redeveloping a major venue that remains in regular use.
“The logistics to deliver these kinds of works are enormous, particularly to ensure there is continuity of racing during the redevelopment,” he said. He said the club would work closely with Racing Queensland to minimise disruption for participants and punters between the end of the 2026 Winter Carnival and the start of the 2027 season.
While the announcement has been welcomed by industry leaders, the full scope, design and final cost of the redevelopment are yet to be detailed, and further funding decisions will be watched closely as planning progresses.
More information on the government’s racing plan is available through here.
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