Built from the vision of the late Terry Snow, the 1000-hectare estate in Bawley Point has evolved into now one of the most comprehensive equestrian facilities in the Southern Hemisphere. From hosting international competitions in dressage, showjumping, and eventing to bolstering campdrafting, Willinga Park has redefined what an equestrian venue can be in Australia.
A legacy of passion and perfection
The sale comes just over a year after the passing of Terry Snow, whose drive for excellence was the cornerstone of the property’s creation. What began as a private retreat grew into a sprawling equestrian hub featuring Olympic-class arenas, accommodation, sculpture gardens, and cutting-edge equine infrastructure.
“Many people build their sandcastles in the sky, but my father, Terry, was unique in his ability to turn them into reality,” said Stephen Bryon, Snow’s son and CEO of Canberra Airport. “Willinga Park was the culmination of his dreams and his great passion, and he most certainly brought that vision to life.”
Terry’s passion for the equestrian community did not just stop with Willinga, his support saw Jayden Brown represent Australia at the World Championships on WillingaPark Sky Diamond, and the Paris Olympics with WillingaPark Quincy B. In eventing, Hazel Shannon and WillingaPark Clifford won the prestigious Adelaide CCI5*L four times – of which three wins were under Willinga Park ownership – and also represented Australia at the 2022 FEI World Championships in Pratoni.
Additionally, the development of the Willinga Park Equine Vet Hospital brings another layer to the incredible property. The purpose-built facility features multiple examination rooms, advanced imaging suites, and the only equine G-scan MRI system of its kind in Australia. Two surgical theatres, a standing surgery suite, and a fully equipped ICU support for complex medical and emergency cases.
A global search for the next owner
The listing is being managed by Ken Jacobs of Forbes Global Properties in partnership with Tim Mutton of JLL, who are positioning Willinga Park as a once-in-a-generation opportunity in the global equestrian and luxury property markets.
The Financial Review has reported that while no set price guide has been publicly advertised, the property’s replacement cost is estimated at around $430 million, with serious offers expected north of $200 million. It also carries approximately $230 million in tax-deductible depreciation for Australian buyers.The campaign is casting a wide net, with agents reporting early interest from international equestrian and ranch investors. They are also putting forward the property to hospitality and resort groups due to the accommodation infrastructure. The Thoroughbred racing industry is also being marketed to and the public advertising of Willinga Park – coinciding with Australia’s spring racing and equestrian calendar – has been designed to attract maximum attention both locally and abroad.
Looking to the future
“There has now come a time when it makes sense to hand over the reins, so to speak, leaving an opportunity to look at future options for Willinga Park – the equestrian, event, and accommodation business – and the Equine Vet Centre,” said Stephen Bryon. “The property is in excellent shape to be taken to the next level, and I believe that with the right owner and operator, it can continue to be an incredible asset for the South Coast and equine sport in Australia.”
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games on the horizon, Stephen also sees potential for Willinga Park to play a key role in Australia’s equestrian future. “We see great potential ahead of the Brisbane Olympic Games for Willinga Park to play a key role as a breeding and training facility, something that was part of my dad’s long-held dream to elevate equestrian sport in Australia.”
For riders, the venue is remaining open with the ten-year anniversary of Dressage by the Sea on the calendar for early next year, where EBM Group will take over as naming rights event sponsor.
There is truly no other venue like Willinga Park and for the Australian equestrian community it represents a vision of excellence, innovation and respect for the horse. Whether in the dressage arena, campdraft yards, or the surgical suites of its veterinary hospital, Terry Snow’s passion for the sport lives on through those who love and enjoy the property.
