Sunshine Coast's Calendar Makes for an Event-full Winter

From surf competitions to garden expos… jazz festivals to regattas …there are loads of fun festivities taking place on the Sunshine Coast this winter.

Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd Chair Barrie Adams said it’s not just the plethora of activities on offer, but their diversity, that makes a winter trip to the Coast a ‘must’.

“There are few regional centres that have the capacity to provide such a variety of events for visitors. For example – in the month of June the Sunshine Coast will host an antique car rally, two sailing championships, a major surfing event and the Noosa Long Weekend festival which will feature some of Australia’s leading authors, performers and artists. And that’s just in a two week period!” Mr Adams said.

One of the most popular winter events is the annual Queensland Garden Expo which is held in the hinterland town of Nambour from 5 – 7 July. This three-day expo attracts 30,000 visitors and some of Australia’s leading garden experts. The program offers free lectures and demonstrations covering a range of gardening topics – from organic veggies to plant identification.

“We’re providing some exciting deals as part of our ‘Stay and Play’ campaign, for those wishing to attend the Garden Expo. There are a number of packages combining event tickets, accommodation and VIP access to exclusive expo events,” Mr Adams said.

Winter is also a great time to bring the kids to the Coast to enjoy the many theme parks and family attractions. Australia Zoo will be putting on a big birthday bash for Bindi Irwin on 24 July, featuring live entertainment and special guests.

Fitness buffs should mark the month of August in their diaries for a trip to the Coast. The action kicks off on August 17 with Tough Mudder – an adventure challenge that involves a grueling obstacle course – followed by the Sunshine Coast Marathon on August 25.

Two major music events will also take place in August. The Gympie Music Muster attracts country music singers and fans from across Australia for a weekend of toe tapping entertainment and camping. And on August 29 – Sept 1 the annual Noosa Jazz Festival will showcase the sweet sounds of vocalist Monica Trapaga, ABC presenter and musician James Valentine, and multi-award winning singing group The Idea of North.

“There is so much to do on the Sunshine Coast over winter and if the events calendar doesn’t tickle your fancy, the weather makes it an ideal holiday destination to just lie on the beach, soak up the sun and make the most of the moment,” said Mr Adams.

For more information on events go to: www.visitsunshinecoast.com.au/events