Fight for equine facility

THE horseriding community will rally today to try to save an equestrian centre from a proposed land sale.

An application was made before Christmas to sell a portion of state land where the North Queensland Equestrian Centre is located in Bluewater.

Under the proposal a part of the public reserve would be permanently closed to allow for the sale to an adjoining landowner.

This morning the North Queensland Reining and Performance Horse Club will rally at the centre with a ride to raise support for the facility.

The club has said if the land was sold, their centre would likely need to close eventually due to the loss of about 90 carparking spaces, a third of its camping and float parking areas and access to some riding trails. Townsville City Council is required to provide a letter of support and undertake community consultation before a formal application can be made to buy the land.

Division 1 councillor Margie Ryder said the council had listened to feedback and extended the community consultation process until February 24.

“Everyone will get to have their say ... and help determine what the future use of the land should be,” Cr Ryder said.

North Queensland Reining and Performance Horse Club president Donna Hudson said they hoped about 50 riders would turn out to fight for the club.

“It’s not just about awareness, this could be the last time we all get together,” she said.

The ride and rally starts at 9am at the facility on Forestry Rd.