Clifford Park History
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History of Clifford Park
A Story of Racing, Community and Evolution
For more than 160 years, Clifford Park has been woven into the fabric of life on the Darling Downs.
From its earliest days, racing here was never just about the sport, it was about bringing people together, shaping the identity of a growing region, and creating a place of shared excitement and tradition.
The story begins in the early 1860s, when organised racing shifted from the outskirts of Drayton to land closer to the emerging township of Toowoomba.
In 1861, a 160 acre site was secured,
and by March 1862 the first official race meeting was held at what was then known as the Drayton and Toowoomba Racecourse. This marked the birth of what would become one of Queensland’s most enduring racing venues.
Local pioneers played a defining role in shaping the club’s future. Influential figures such as James Taylor and fellow trustees helped establish the foundations of the Toowoomba Turf Club, guiding its development through its formative years.
Their vision ensured the racecourse would not only survive, but grow alongside the city it served, becoming a focal point for racing, breeding and social life across the region.
As Toowoomba evolved, so did Clifford Park...
From early timber structures to the construction of the iconic grandstand in 1926, the racecourse continually adapted to meet the needs of modern racing while preserving its heritage.
Night racing, introduced in the 1990s, cemented Clifford Park’s reputation as a trailblazer, while ongoing upgrades have ensured the venue remains relevant, vibrant and welcoming today.
More than a racetrack, Clifford Park stands as a living landmark, a place where generations of racegoers, trainers, jockeys and families have gathered. Its history is one of change, resilience and community connection, and its story continues to unfold with every race meeting held under lights.
Timeline A History
Our Racing Story Through Time
- James Taylor
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1848
The first recorded race meeting on the Darling Downs is held by the Drayton Racing Club, reflecting the early importance of racing to the region.
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1861
A 160-acre parcel of land is acquired for a permanent racecourse closer to Toowoomba. The site is vested in trustees including James Taylor, marking the foundations of today’s Clifford Park Racecourse.
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1862
On the 6th of March, the first official race meeting is conducted on the new course, then known as the Drayton and Toowoomba Racecourse.
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1862
July of 1862, the first race carnival is held, followed by regular Christmas race meetings, establishing a lasting racing calendar.
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1870
The Queensland Government formally donates the land to racing trustees, recognising the racecourse as an important recreational asset for the region.
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1882
The Toowoomba Turf Club is officially formed, with James Taylor elected as its first President. This marks a new era of structured governance and growth.
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1886
Local success on the national stage when Ben Bolt, a Toowoomba-bred horse, wins the Caulfield Cup, boosting interest in racing and breeding across the Darling Downs.
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1889
A substantial grandstand is constructed, replacing earlier temporary structures and reflecting the club’s growing prominence.
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1890
Iconic races including the Weetwood Handicap, Toowoomba Cup and Clifford Plate are established, many of which continue today.
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1914
The racecourse is officially renamed Clifford Park Racecourse, a name that endures as a symbol of its heritage.
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1926-1927
Construction and opening of the current heritage-listed 1926 Grandstand, designed by prominent Toowoomba architect James Marks. This structure remains a defining feature of the venue today.
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1950
Post-World War II Permanent stables are introduced along Wyalla Street as racing operations expand, signalling a shift toward modern training and facilities.
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1992
Clifford Park makes Australian racing history by staging the first race ever run under electric lights, the Foster’s Toowoomba Cup.
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1996
September 4th Australia's first full night race meeting is held at Clifford Park, cementing its reputation as the Home of Twilight Racing.
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1990-2000
Major facility developments including the Bernborough/Weetwood Stand, Neil Mansell Auditorium and the Clive Berghofer Grande Atrium enhance the race day and event experience.
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2014
Installation of the StrathAyr grass track and refurbishment of key hospitality spaces ensure the venue continues to meet modern racing and patron expectations.
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Today
Clifford Park hosts more than 45 race meetings each year, remains a vital part of Queensland’s thoroughbred racing industry, and continues to play an active role in the Toowoomba community through events, employment and local support.
Be Part of the Story
Membership at Clifford Park
Join a tradition that’s been bringing the Darling Downs together for more than 160 years.