MARBURG is set to play a central role in the revival of Harness Racing in Queensland, with the State Government confirming a major upgrade of the Marburg Showgrounds to become an Elite Harness Training and Racing Centre.
The announcement forms part of sweeping reforms under The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing, developed following the independent Queensland Racing Review 2025.
The Marburg upgrade will establish the town as a key training and racing hub within a new western harness racing corridor, linking Brisbane, Marburg and Toowoomba, and strengthening participation across South East Queensland.
The Government says Marburg’s strategic location between Brisbane and Toowoomba, and its proximity to established standardbred breeding and training populations, make it a natural choice for elite facilities.
Under the plan, the upgraded Marburg Showgrounds will provide improved access to top-class training infrastructure for local breeders, trainers and owners, while also supporting the growth of new participants entering the sport.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the Marburg centre would play a critical role in the future of harness racing in Queensland.
Marburg Pacing Association president Shaun Gillespie welcomed the announcement, saying the upgrade would deliver long-term benefits for the local racing community.
“Having an elite training and racing centre on our doorstep will encourage more people to get involved in the industry and help secure its future in the region,” Mr Gillespie said.
The Marburg development complements broader reforms across the state, including the execution of the Albion Park Master Plan, which will see Albion Park become Queensland’s new Racing HQ, and the re-establishment of harness racing at Toowoomba.
