Celebrating our military history

A Veterans Military Museum is one step closer after Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) voted in favour of giving in-principle support to provide Council land for the project.

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the motion (18 August) which Mayor Paul Antonio believes will provide the project proponents with a major boost as they seek funding support from the State and Federal Governments.

“It’s a fantastic dream that this group has and by providing land, the group can now progress the project further,” he said.

"This is a critical step – the first thing the Federal Government needs is to know the local community is behind it.

“We have strong military ties in the Toowoomba Region and a museum like this would be a fitting tribute to the men and women who have served us over the years.

“The concept for this museum is incredible, featuring a multi-level design with several gallery spaces.

“In addition to this, the proponents intend to employ war veterans to operate the gallery and maintain the grounds which would be quite appropriate for a museum such as this.”

As part of the decision, Council will allow use of a portion of Council land located on Borghardt Road in Spring Bluff for the construction of the proposed Veterans First Military Museum with a suitable land use agreement to be negotiated should the business case and associated capital and ongoing funding applications be successful.

“For a number of years Council has strategically acquired escarpment lands at Spring Bluff for future parkland provision,” Mayor Antonio said.

“This proposal ticks all those boxes and would be a major tourist attraction for visitors coming to our Region.

“It would not only act as an attraction on its own, but would encourage further operators to build off of this project.”

For more information visit www.tr.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 131 872.