Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers continues to bloom

Tourism and Major Events Minister Kate Jones today announced a new partnership with Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers, securing the future of the popular event for the next three years.

Ms Jones said the new agreement locked in support from Tourism and Events Queensland for the 2017, 2018 and 2019 events.

“There is a reason the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is a multiple Gold award winner at the Australian Tourism Awards and we are proud to support it on an ongoing basis, as it goes from strength-to-strength,” she said.

“Tens of thousands of people flock to Toowoomba every year for the carnival to enjoy the Ergon Energy Food and Wine Festival, watch the Grand Central Floral Parade and take in a series of live concerts.

“But obviously above all else, they come for the more than 80 community flower-themed events and to explore more than 110 private garden showcases.”

Ms Jones said the support of Tourism and Events Queensland for a further three years would enable the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers to grow its position as one of Australia’s leading horticultural events which last year pumped more than $10 million into the Queensland economy.

“There is no better place than Toowoomba – our very own Garden City – to discover the best of Queensland’s horticultural history while also exploring the unique visitor experiences offered right across the Darling Downs,” she said.

“This new strategic partnership will allow carnival organisers to focus on making the carnival bigger and better for the future.”

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio said the new agreement gives the Carnival of Flowers an even stronger foundation for growth.

“Our community is so proud of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Australia’s longest running horticultural festival as it continues to reach new heights,” he said.

“Our city comes alive each September as we host close to 200,000 event attendees who take in our natural beauty, gourmet delights and all that Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has to offer.

“This latest boost from the State Government is further testament to the event’s strength and potential and I thank the Minister and TEQ for their faith in our carnival.”
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This year’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers runs from September 15-24.