Eagle Farm Racecourse Archives

New Grandstand Planned At Eagle Farm Racecourse

A new grandstand is planned at Eagle Farm, with $25 million committed to begin demolition and early works to replace the ageing John Power Stand at the Brisbane racecourse.

Site History And Existing Facilities

Eagle Farm Racecourse has hosted thoroughbred racing for more than 160 years. Several spectator facilities at the venue, including the John Power Stand, have been assessed as nearing the end of their operational life.

Engineering investigations into the John Power Stand were first undertaken in 2013, with further assessments completed in 2022 and 2023. These reports identified significant structural deterioration and concluded that major components of the building were approaching the end of their structural lifespan.

The John Power Stand is scheduled to be decommissioned in August 2026, following the conclusion of the Winter Carnival.

Funding And Project Scope

An initial $25 million has been released to support the first stage of redevelopment at Eagle Farm. The funding will allow demolition of the John Power Stand to commence and enable detailed planning for a replacement spectator facility.

The funding forms part of a broader loan arrangement for racing infrastructure and aligns with a statewide framework aimed at delivering modern, fit-for-purpose facilities across Queensland’s racing network.

Brisbane Racing Club — Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842

Planning And Approval Pathway

The Eagle Farm grandstand redevelopment has been approved under Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID-0524-0842), granted in October 2025. The designation enables a state-led assessment process for the project.

Planning documentation associated with the designation includes concept designs for a new facility, referred to as The Terraces, which will replace the John Power Stand.

John Power Stand — Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842

Maintaining Racing Operations

The Brisbane Racing Club, which operates Eagle Farm, has indicated the works will be staged to allow racing to continue during redevelopment. Coordination with Racing Queensland is intended to minimise disruption between the end of the 2026 Winter Carnival and the commencement of the 2027 season.

Eagle Farm grandstand — Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842

Looking Ahead

Once completed, the new grandstand is expected to provide upgraded amenities and improved accessibility, supporting ongoing use of Eagle Farm as Queensland’s premier thoroughbred racing venue.

Published 7-Jan-2026

Racecourse-Front Homes Drive Buyer Demand in Hendra

Photo Credit: Place

A rare run of racecourse-front homes in Hendra has attracted a buyer waiting list, driven by tightly held supply and direct views across Eagle Farm Racecourse.

A Rare Racecourse Boundary In Hendra

Mein Street in Hendra is described as one of the only streets in Australia where freestanding homes sit directly on the boundary of a major metropolitan racecourse. About 20 homes sit along the stretch between the 1200m and 1400m start points of the Eagle Farm track.

The positioning is unusual for metropolitan racecourses, which are more commonly bordered by commercial buildings, stables, or infrastructure rather than residential homes.

Hendra racecourse homes — Photo Credit: Place

Record Land Sale Points To Scarcity

A recently sold 850sqm parcel achieved $3.8 million, reported as a suburb land sale record for Hendra. The sale was made to Eagle Farm trainer Caitlin Hoysted and her husband Matt.

Market commentary linked the result to the limited supply and the difficulty of replicating the street’s outlook and location.

Eagle Farm Racecourse — Photo Credit: Place

Micro-Market Draws Highly Specific Buyers

Agents have described Mein Street as a micro-market that has outperformed the broader Hendra market. Buyer interest has been characterised as narrow and location-specific, with some prospective purchasers focused solely on the racecourse frontage.

98 Mein Street Listing Highlights The Appeal

A neighbouring property at 98 Mein Street in Hendra is also on the market. The home is owned by interior designer Tonya Scheiwe of Style Elements Interiors and her husband Stu Balding.

The pair have recently completed the residence and are building on the block directly next door, while describing the street as a social community with race-day gatherings.

Location Links To Nearby Precincts

Other notable points about the property are the home’s position within Hendra, accessible to Racecourse Road and Portside; within walking distance to Doomben and Eagle Farm racecourses and the CBD about 8km away, a short commute via bus or train.

Published 19-Dec-2025

Redevelopment Aims to Preserve Heritage of Paddock and Members Stands at Eagle Farm Racecourse

The Paddock and Members Grandstands at Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot are set for a major transformation, with a development application lodged to refurbish and modernise the historic structures while enhancing the overall race-day experience.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

Under the proposal (A006814732), patrons, jockeys, and stewards will benefit from upgraded facilities including new function rooms, stewards’ and jockeys’ areas, and modern amenities such as ice baths and spas.

The project also features redesigned bar and dining spaces, new terraces, and a link bridge connecting the Paddock to the St Leger Precinct.

Site plan (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online)

The winners’ enclosure will be reconfigured to improve spectator views, while landscaped garden beds, green roofs, and upgraded lawns aim to soften the site and provide attractive gathering areas. A new community hub is also planned, designed to bring people together for race days and other events.

As part of the redevelopment, some existing structures, including the John Power Stand, Steward’s Tower, and several trees, will be demolished. Despite the changes, planners stress the design will preserve Eagle Farm’s heritage character while delivering a contemporary upgrade that integrates with its historic surroundings.

History of the Grandstands

Undated photo of the completed Paddock Stand with the eastern edge of the 1924 Members Stand (Photo credit: Tote Archive/Brisbane PD Online)

Eagle Farm Racecourse, established in 1863 in Brisbane’s Ascot, has long stood as Queensland’s premier racing venue. Just 6 kilometres from the CBD, it became more accessible with the opening of Ascot railway station in 1882.

The Paddock Stand, designed in 1889–1890 by architects Hunter and Corrie in partnership with John H. Buckeridge, was a brick and iron grandstand completed in 1890.

1936 photo of the Paddock Stand and the Members Stand (Photo credit: SLQ negative 65212/Brisbane PD Online)

Featuring a vaulted roof with a ventilated ridge, timber gables, and decorative cast-iron balustrades, the stand quickly became a focal point for racegoers. Its tiered seating faced the track, with a large open forecourt that encouraged both viewing and social interaction.

The Members Stand followed in 1904, and over the decades, both structures were extended and modified, most notably in the 1920s, when the Paddock Stand was lengthened in 1921 and the Members Stand expanded in 1925. These updates gave the grandstands a cohesive appearance, blending brick, rendered masonry, timber windows, leadlight details, and decorative arches.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Enhances Accessibility with Stylish New Lift

More than a century later, the Paddock and Members Grandstands remain integral to Eagle Farm’s heritage and identity. The new redevelopment aims to carry this legacy forward, ensuring the structures continue to serve both racing enthusiasts and the broader community for generations to come.

Updated 25-November-2025

Aroma @ Ascot Brings Italian Dining and Garden Atmosphere to Ascot

Photo Credit: Aroma @ Ascot

Aroma @ Ascot has opened near Eagle Farm Racecourse. It offers the Ascot community authentic Italian cuisine in a distinctively designed setting featuring natural elements like a prominent fig tree.

Distinctive Dining Environment

The restaurant provides a welcoming place for meals, combining modern design with touches of nature. Located close to the Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot, the venue features sleek décor alongside botanical elements such as hanging plants. A key feature is a large fig tree, lit with fairy lights in the evening, creating a special atmosphere.

*Photo Credit:* *Aroma @ Ascot/ Facebook*

Guests can choose between dining inside or using the outdoor seating area, which includes a section shaded by the fig tree. There is also a covered bar area with a glass roof and a wall featuring a waterfall. The restaurant aims to offer a setting suitable for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations, focusing on a warm and inviting environment where people can relax.

Focus on Quality Ingredients

Aroma @ Ascot focuses on quality and authenticity in its cooking. The restaurant sources local ingredients, emphasising seasonal produce to present fresh flavours from the region. While respecting traditional cooking methods, the kitchen also incorporates creativity into its dishes.

*Pastrami, mustard, sauerkraut and swiss cheese on sourdough with cornichons*
*Photo Credit:* *Aroma @ Ascot/ Facebook*

The team aims to make dining memorable by balancing taste, texture, and presentation. It shows a commitment to careful preparation and excellence in every meal served. The goal is to provide more than just food, fostering an atmosphere where guests can enjoy their meals without feeling rushed, connect with others, and celebrate moments.

Authentic Italian Menu

*12hr Braised Lamb*
*Photo Credit:* *Aroma @ Ascot/ Facebook*

The menu centres on authentic Italian food. Aroma @ Ascot serves wood-fired pizza and calzoni alongside fresh, hand-made pasta. Other Trattoria-style dishes and drinks complement the main Italian offerings.

The restaurant highlights these specific dishes as central to its culinary identity. It aims to provide a genuine taste of Italy by using quality preparation methods like wood-firing for its pizzas.

Published Date 14-April-2025

A Day of Racing, Fashion, & Fun: Girls Day Out Returns to Eagle Farm

Eagle Farm Racecourse will transform into a hub of excitement on 1 March as the Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) hosts the highly anticipated 2025 Roku Gin Girls Day Out Raceday.

Read: The Eagle Farm Siege: A Historical Look at Courage and Crisis

A staple in Brisbane’s social calendar, this event promises an unforgettable mix of high-energy racing, fashion, and entertainment right in the heart of the community.

A Day of Fun Beyond the Races

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/brc.com.au

While the thrilling races will be the main attraction, the fun extends far beyond the track. Guests can enjoy roving entertainment, tarot card readings, and live performances, adding a unique flair to the experience. The Roku Gin Retreat offers a luxurious escape, while pamper stations, henna tattoos, and face painting ensure there’s something for everyone. Plus, a charity raffle gives racegoers the chance to support a great cause while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Exclusive Perks for BRC Members

For Brisbane Racing Club members, the perks keep coming. Fashion-forward guests can enter the Members Best Dressed Competition by simply getting their photo taken, with the chance to take home stylish prizes. After the races, the members-only Champagne Bar will set the scene for a lively evening of music and celebration.

Elevate Your Experience

For those looking to take their day to the next level, the Lower Level of the Squires Perch is the place to be. This exclusive 18+ event offers stunning views of the track, a cocktail-style menu curated by Executive Chef John Felesina, and a five-hour gold beverage package featuring premium wines, beers, sparkling, and non-alcoholic options. A live DJ will keep the energy high, making it the perfect setting for an afternoon of indulgence and fun.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

Get Ready for a Glamorous Day Out

With so many Instagram-worthy moments, an electrifying atmosphere, and thrilling races to enjoy, the 2025 Roku Gin Girls Day Out at Eagle Farm is an unmissable event. So gather your friends, dress to impress, and get ready to make lasting memories.

Tickets are on sale now—secure yours today for a day of fashion, excitement, and entertainment right here in Eagle Farm!

Published 4-February-2025

Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

Queensland’s iconic Eagle Farm Racecourse, a hub of thoroughbred racing in the state, requires a significant redevelopment of its aging John Power Stand before its safety certification expires in August 2026, according to the Brisbane Racing Club.

The Race Against Time

The grandstand at Eagle Farm has surpassed its intended lifespan, with engineering reports confirming it is only “safe for now.” Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) Chief Executive Karl deKroo highlighted the urgency of starting construction work to avoid disruption during key carnival periods and to ensure the venue remains operational while the redevelopment progresses.

The Terraces Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

The proposed project, titled “The Terraces,” aims to replace the John Power Stand with a scaled-down, modern structure suitable for one of Queensland’s premier racing facilities. DeKroo noted that despite the challenges of securing funding amid government priorities like the 2032 Olympics, action is essential to prevent the venue from falling into disrepair.

The replacement of the John Power Stand is part of a broader project, referenced as MID-0524-0842 – Eagle Farm Racecourse, which includes significant upgrades within the “Eagle Farm Grandstand Precinct.” This redevelopment project seeks to align with existing planning approvals and regulatory conditions established through court judgments in 2015 and 2016.

As part of the development process, a public consultation period was conducted from 25 September 2024 to 18 December 2024, allowing stakeholders and community members to review and provide feedback on the project’s plans.

Plans for The Terraces Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

Community and Industry Significance

Eagle Farm Racecourse is more than just a sporting venue. As the heart of thoroughbred racing in Queensland, it plays a vital role in the state’s economy and cultural identity. DeKroo stressed the importance of investing in the venue for the benefit of the entire racing industry, which relies heavily on Eagle Farm’s operations. He also expressed support for past investments in regional and greyhound racing but called for recognition of Eagle Farm’s critical role in metropolitan racing.

The BRC has historically funded its projects independently, including a $50 million training facility that supports the broader industry. However, deKroo argued that this redevelopment requires government collaboration, especially given the project’s broader economic and community implications.

Demolition plans for the grandstand at the Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

Balancing Development and Future Needs

In addition to preserving the racecourse, the BRC sees an opportunity to align with Queensland’s preparations for the 2032 Olympics. DeKroo suggested that nearby Doomben Racecourse could serve Olympic-related needs, such as hosting equestrian quarantine facilities or training fields, providing an enduring community benefit.

While the project timeline is tight, the BRC remains committed to ensuring Eagle Farm Racecourse remains a key part of Queensland’s racing and cultural heritage. With the 2026 deadline, the BRC emphasised the importance of starting enabling works immediately to avoid operational disruptions.

Published 6-Jan-2025

Fine Cotton Fiasco: Eagle Farm Racecourse at the Centre of Notorious Horse Racing Scandal

Photo Credit: Trove

Flashback to 1984: Remember the Fine Cotton Affair that rocked Aussie racing? It all went down at Eagle Farm Racecourse when a sneaky switcheroo saw a slowpoke named Fine Cotton replaced with a speed demon called Bold Personality.

This audacious plot to fleece the bookies became a legendary tale of racing shenanigans, forever stamping Eagle Farm’s place in Aussie turf history.

In 1984, a racehorse named Fine Cotton was secretly replaced with a faster horse, Bold Personality, in an attempt to defraud bookmakers at Eagle Farm Racecourse in Brisbane.

The Fine Cotton Fiasco

The elaborate scheme was orchestrated by John Gillespie, who hatched the plan while serving time in Boggo Road Gaol. Gillespie had previously attempted a similar scam in 1982 but avoided prosecution. This time, he involved horse trainer Hayden Haitana and others in a plot to switch Fine Cotton with a horse named Dashing Solitaire. However, when Dashing Solitaire was injured, they were forced to use Bold Personality instead.

The conspirators tried to disguise Bold Personality with hair dye and paint to resemble Fine Cotton. However, the disguise was poorly done, and the horse’s true identity was quickly suspected. Despite this, Bold Personality, disguised as Fine Cotton, won the race. However, stewards noticed the suspicious betting activity on the horse and the obvious disguise. The horse was disqualified, and an inquiry was launched.

Eagle Farm’s Place in History

As it became known, this tarnished Eagle Farm Racecourse’s reputation. The incident exposed the racing industry’s vulnerabilities and raised questions about security and integrity. The racecourse, a popular venue for Brisbane residents, became synonymous with one of the most audacious scams in Australian sporting history.

The Aftermath

As it became known, the said affair resulted in several people, including Gillespie and Haitana, being banned from racecourses for life. Even high-profile figures like bookmakers Bill and Robbie Waterhouse were implicated in the scandal. The incident remains one of the most infamous scandals in Australian horse racing history.

Published Date 02-January-2025

Eagle Farm Racecourse Enhances Accessibility with Stylish New Lift

The Eagle Farm Racecourse has taken a significant step towards improving accessibility for all visitors with the installation of a sleek new lift in its top-level hospitality area.

Read: Did You Know that the Eagle Farm Racecourse Was a Military Camp in WW2?

The addition of this state-of-the-art elevator not only enhances the venue’s functionality but also complements its elegant atmosphere.

The two-stop Linea DDA lift, made by Direct Lifts Australia features a sophisticated black finish and framed sliding doors. Its design adds a touch of modern chic to the historic racecourse, demonstrating that accessibility solutions can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Eagle Farm — Photo credit: Direct Lifts Australia/Facebook

Equipped with cutting-edge hydraulic motor technology, the lift ensures a smooth and whisper-quiet ride for patrons. This feature is particularly valuable in maintaining the refined ambiance of the hospitality area, allowing guests to move between levels without disruption.

The Linea DDA lift is not just about looks and comfort; it’s built for longevity and efficiency. Designed for easy use and maintenance, it promises years of reliable service. Its low power consumption aligns with modern sustainability practices, making it an environmentally conscious choice for the racecourse.

This upgrade at Eagle Farm Racecourse reflects a growing trend in the events and hospitality industry to prioritise inclusive design. By ensuring that all areas are easily accessible, the venue is opening its doors wider to patrons of all abilities, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrills and excitement of race day.

Read: Historic John Power Grandstand Faces Demolition in Eagle Farm Racecourse Revamp

The installation of this lift is more than just an addition of infrastructure; it’s a statement of Eagle Farm’s commitment to providing a premier experience for all its visitors. As the racecourse continues to blend its rich history with modern amenities, this new lift stands as a symbol of progress, ensuring that the venue remains at the forefront of accessibility and guest comfort in Brisbane’s vibrant sporting and social scene.

Published 9-October-2024

Bernborough Ascot, Retirement Village Takes Shape

Bernborough Ascot, a new high-rise retirement living development is taking shape in as part of a large-scale renewal project transforming the city’s Doomben and Eagle Farm racecourse precincts.

The $270 million complex by retirement village operator Keyton has reached a construction milestone with the topping out of its second building called Poinciana House. The 53-apartment tower is set for completion in early 2025.

Bernborough Ascot claims to be the nation’s first vertical retirement community integrated within a racecourse precinct. Its first stage, the sold-out Fig Tree House, has already opened.

While pioneering the high-rise retirement living concept in Brisbane, the development is also garnering attention for its green credentials as one of the first in Australia to achieve a 6-Star Green Star sustainability rating.

Nathan Cockerill, Keyton’s CEO, says the project aims to create “connected, diverse retirement communities” with an emphasis on amenities that promote resident wellbeing and social engagement.

In addition to stylishly appointed independent living apartments, Poinciana House will feature resort-style facilities like a rooftop terrace, restaurant, outdoor entertaining areas, pool, gym and allied health consulting rooms.

The development forms part of the $1.5 billion Brisbane Racing Club master plan to revitalise the Doomben and Eagle Farm racing precinct into a mixed-use destination with residential, commercial and recreational elements.

For the established Ascot neighbourhood, the arrival of a new cohort of over-55s residents could spur demand for more age-friendly infrastructure and services while adding density to the inner-city suburb.

With Australia’s senior population continuing to grow, retirement operators are exploring innovative housing models like vertical villages to meet the changing needs and lifestyle expectations of this demographic.

Published 16-June-2024

Affordable Housing and Community Hub Proposed for Eagle Farm Racecourse

Editor’s Note: The original story referred to the planned affordable housing and community hub as “proposed” in the headline and the body of the article; however, the first paragraph inadvertently misstated that “40 hectares of a 49-hectare site have been acquired.” The wording has been corrected below to “40 hectares of a 49-hectare site have been proposed to be acquired.” We would like to express our thanks to the Brisbane Racing Club for pointing out the error and would also like to extend our apologies for any inconvenience or confusion caused by the same.

Forty hectares of a 49-hectare site have been proposed to be acquired by BCC to transform the Eagle Farm racecourse into a new, sustainable community hub and build 4,000 publicly-owned rent-capped apartments alongside new parklands, native forests, and schools.

Read: Public Views on Eagle Farm Affordable Housing Plan Sought

The proposal comes amid a deepening housing affordability crisis in Brisbane that has seen rents surge over 20 percent in the past year.

Racecourse vision (Photo credit: www.jonathansri.com)

The Greens have long held that Council should work with State and Federal governments and local First Nations groups to ultimately restore land ownership to a non-profit First Nations-controlled community organisation. Also, they said that any renewal of Eagle Farm racecourse should prioritise benefits for the broader Brisbane community, rather than principally enriching racing insiders and developers.

The Plan

According to the Greens, a new medium-density walkable neighbourhood could provide:

10 hectares of five-storey mixed-use buildings spread around the site, with ground-floor shops, offices and services. This would create 4000 publicly-owned rent-capped homes for 10 000 residents, plus 75,000m2 of publicly owned ground floor services and commercial tenancies, with space for supermarkets, shops and services
More than half the site opened up as public green space including native forest/bushland, parks, sports fields, urban farms and food forests (25 hectares)
Public services and facilities including a new primary school, high school, major library, community centre and publicly-run bulk-billing medical clinic (5 hectares)
Preservation of existing heritage buildings and features for live music, hospitality and the arts, with the racetrack itself repurposed as a 2km tree-fringed walking and cycling circuit
Upgraded public transport with trains every 15 minutes and disability upgrades for Ascot Station, plus free, frequent buses connecting through the site to neighbouring suburbs like the high-density precinct at Northshore Hamilton.

Possible public housing and community facilities (Photo credit: www.jonathansri.com)

“Inner-city racecourses are a ridiculous waste of land, and Eagle Farm Racecourse is a massive 49-hectare, flood-free site, just 5km from the city and located directly beside Ascot train station. It’s the ideal place for new medium-density publicly-owned housing,” mayoralty candidate Jonathan Sriranganathan said.

Member Stephen Bates also highlighted that Brisbane is undergoing massive population growth yet remains in the depths of a housing affordability crisis. He stated that it is time to take bold action and properly plan for the homes and facilities that the city’s communities need.

“That’s why (we) are pleased to call for public feedback on a bold proposal to replace Eagle Farm Racecourse with 4000 publicly-owned rent-capped apartments, parkland, and community infrastructure like new schools, a neighbourhood centre, library, and more,” Mr Bates said.

Read: New School Openings Prompt Catchment Changes Across Brisbane

Those who would like to give their feedback may answer the survey here.

Published 15-November-2023