Gympie Regional Council allocated $900,000 in its recent Budget towards construction of the new $2.06 million Equestrian Centre at Kilkivan.
The rest of the funding for the project, which will be constructed at Kilkivan Showgrounds, is being provided by the State Government through its Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.
Gympie councillor Hilary Smerdon said the plan was to build an 80m x 40m covered rectangular arena in an area of the showgrounds that is above flood-level.
An awning would be extended off one side to provide cover for a grandstand.
The project would also include adjacent yards for horses and cattle, although existing infrastructure in the showgrounds would also be utilised.
“The centre will be able to host most types of horse events,” Cr Smerdon said.
These will include campdrafts, cutting and barrel races.
However, Cr Smerdon said it could also be used for other activities, including concerts.
“We are hoping to get it out for tender by August,” Cr Smerdon said.
“Construction could then begin soon afterwards. The aim is to have it finished by June next year.”
The 2019 Kilkivan Great Horse Ride will be timed to coincide with the opening of the Equestrian Centre, probably in September.
Cr Smerdon, who is also president of the Kilkivan Great Horse Ride committee, said September 6-8 had been pencilled in but this was still to be confirmed.
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