Toowoomba Regional Council this week (April 16, 2024) endorsed $45,000 in sponsorship to help organisers stage the May 5 Toowoomba Marathon, presented by Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport.
Council approved the sponsorship at its April Ordinary Meeting following an application from event organisers, Gold Coast Events Management Ltd (Events Management Queensland).
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald said while the sponsorship was directed at the 2024 event, and not for an additional two years as proposed by organisers, there was considerable potential for the race day to develop into a bigger attraction.
“As the organisers behind the Gold Coast Marathon and Pan Pacific Masters Games, Gold Coast Events Management Ltd has shown it has considerable expertise in staging successful sporting events,” Mayor McDonald said.
“Council officers have been working with the organisers on different aspects of the Marathon for months. They have played a significant role in liaising with Police and other groups to finalise the race route to ensure minimal disruption to the community on May 5 and input on the traffic management plan.
“It is encouraging to note that 1400 registrations have been lodged, incorporating runs over 2km, 5km, 10km, 21km and the marathon (42km), with expectations for 2000 starters. The half marathon is the most popular distance to date, with 522 registrations. The 5km walk/run is being sponsored by Council’sdestination brand, Visit Toowoomba Region (for details, see www.visittoowoombaregion.com.au)