OFFICIAL PROGRAM
good es tim food & wine
bliss memorable
live
gigs 19-28
SEPTEMBER
2014
PART OF:
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
thank you to our partners We would like to extend a sincere “Thank You” to the partners and supporters who sponsor the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. Without them, we couldn’t bring this special event to you.
GOVERNMENT PARTNERS
FOUNDATION PARTNERS
PROVIDING PARTNERS Peter Roberts Honda
MEDIA AND PROMOTIONAL PARTNERS
AND A SPECIAL THANK YOU… To the hundreds of volunteers and more than 300 community groups who give their time and expertise so readily.
ival d the Cisapronw e r e m a te rts e b o R r te e P by nda Ho
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
CONTENTS
contents WELCOME
4
GALA DINNER
6
ERGON ENERGY FLOWER, FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL
8
At a glance窶ｦ
HERITAGE BANK LIVE CONCERT SERIES
14
16
Friday
18
Saturday
19
Sunday
20
GRAND CENTRAL FLORAL PARADE
22
SIDESHOW ALLEY
24
THE CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION
28
SPRING SOIRﾃ右
31
OUR PARKS
32
KIDS DAY OUT
36
TASTES OF THE REGION
38
TOURS & PACKAGES
41
Garden tours
42
Food & Wine tours
44
Experience tours
46
COMMUNITY FLORAL EVENTS
48
OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO
52
TOOWOOMBA CBD MAP
59
Contents
3
WELCOME
t e y o t e m o we lc er great anoth and event! Queensl
welcome MINISTERIAL WELCOME MESSAGE Message from the Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, the Honourable Jann Stuckey Welcome to the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 – another great Southern Queensland Country experience on Queensland’s dynamic and growing events calendar.
fun
Tourism is one of the four pillars of the Queensland economy. A key theme of the recently launched Destination Success 20-year plan for Queensland tourism is to identify and promote iconic experiences throughout Queensland’s many destinations.
times
ahead
By working hand-in-hand through an industry-government partnership, we have a plan to secure the long term future of Queensland’s tourism industry. The government is proud to support the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 through Tourism and Events Queensland, recognising the importance of events in driving visitors to regional areas and showcasing Queensland’s destination experiences. Events like this are not only a source of community pride, they also bring social and economic benefit to the host community and will assist us to reach our goal to double annual overnight visitor expenditure from $15 billion to $30 billion by 2020.
eat laugh play stay
The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is supported through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Regional Development Program, which to date has invested more than $23 million across 1,067 Queensland events. I would like to thank the local community, volunteers and event organisers for their terrific efforts in delivering this event for Southern Queensland Country. The Hon. Jann Stuckey, Queensland Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games
“Events like this are not only a source of community pride, they also bring social and economic benefit to the host community…”
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
MAYORAL WELCOME MESSAGE Message from the Mayor of Toowoomba, Cr Paul Antonio Welcome to spring in Toowoomba, a time of year that is celebrated by not only the winterweary gardeners throughout this wonderful city, but also thousands of tourists who come to marvel at the jewel atop The Great Dividing Range. It is with great pleasure that, on behalf of the Toowoomba Regional Council, I invite you, residents and tourists alike, to take part in the 65th Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers – Australia’s longest running horticultural event. The Carnival will officially run from September 19 to 28 this year. It is bigger than just the official program however, as our city’s gardeners toil for months to bring their creations to an explosive climax of colour and artistry at precisely the right time of year. You can sense the excitement building in the city as spring approaches and our wonderful deciduous trees don their new shades of green. As a resident, you know Carnival is not far away as you start to get telephone calls from friends and family asking how the gardens are looking and should they come for a visit. Nature’s beauty is the centre of this spectacular event, but over the course of its 65 years Carnival has grown to encompass a series of other events to entertain and absorb our attention. Each year I love to see the delighted smiles of our youngest residents watching the traditional Parade as it travels down our streets. You look at them and see the wide-eyed wonder reflecting back and realise all the behind-the-scenes efforts in organising this event are worth every hour of toil. Our young people are the guardians of our traditions and through them the Carnival will live on and eventually be passed on to a new generation.
The Carnival continues to evolve with displays of regional gourmet food, wine and art displays. Top musical acts and vibrant street performances charge the evenings with an extra bit of spice and our visitors marvel that this is what it must be like to live in Toowoomba all year round. In some ways, Carnival is a reflection of life in our mountain city. Like Carnival and the gardens which are the centre of this celebration, there is renewal and growth in our city each year, the hard work of our gardeners reflecting the toil of other citizens as they make our city a more prosperous place to live. Council would like to acknowledge all the volunteers who contribute to this event’s success and thanks all sponsors and foundation partners for their ongoing support. We cannot fail to mention Council’s own gardening team. Their preparation throughout the year ensures the success of the event and I know from talking to many of them that this is a labour of love. The pride they feel is evident as they see the many thousands of people who tour our public places, marvelling at the colour and complexity of their work. So what will 2014 hold for all those attending Carnival? The program this year is once again a varied and vibrant affair, with scores of free community events across the city, tours, and as the phrase goes, something for everyone. There will be surprises, old favourites and a feast for all the senses. You will be amazed and amused, entertained and enthralled, tantalised and transfixed. Wander through our parks, take tours of the gardens, but most of all absorb the culture and identity of Toowoomba. It is something of which we are proud.
iconic &
memorable
Welcome to the 65th Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. It is yours to enjoy. Cr Paul Antonio, Mayor, Toowoomba Regional Council
“You can sense the excitement building in the city as spring approaches…”
Welcome
5
GALA DINNER
gala dinner You are invited to join the Mayor, Cr Paul Antonio at a magical gala evening to officially commence the 2014 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers celebrations. A Carnival first, the beautiful gardens of Queens Park and its grand avenue of camphor laurel trees provide the setting for an unforgettable dining experience under the stars. As dusk settles, be among the first to enjoy a special viewing of the magnificent garden displays, the winning entries in the Floral Art Design competition and the launch of our Culture to Couture fashions, all against a backdrop of musical enchantment.
With ingredients sourced from ethical and highly specialised fine food producers such as Banyard Game Birds and Tillari Trotters, mouth-watering Killarney eye fillet, season’s best vegetables from the farms of John Paten & Bridget Ryan, TJ and RM Dunn and Wickham Farms, as well as an enticing selection of freshly harvested succulent berries from Hampton Blue and Wrenco,
Thursday 18 September 2014
TIME 6:30pm
OUR REGIONAL FOOD STORY The Gala Dinner is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of the finest produce available in the Southern Queensland Country region.
DATE
delicious Lerinda Apples and Apthorpe rhubarb, and flavoursome herbs from Symara Organic Farm, kfarm and Farmer’s Choice, your palate will be completely invigorated by the truly farm-fresh difference. We are so fortunate to have ready-access to such a tantalising range of fresh quality produce in the Southern Queensland Country region, and the Gala Dinner will showcase some of our very best through a fivecourse degustation menu complemented by specially selected local wines.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
LOCATION Upper Queens Park, Margaret & Lindsay Streets, Toowoomba
BOOKINGS Tickets are available from 1 August, $170 per person. To make a booking and for further information, visit www.tcof.com.au Ensure to book early to avoid disappointment! Please note that this is an 18+ only event.
Gala Menu
CANAPÉS
Buckwheat blinis with smoked salmon/crème fraîche and chive/salmon caviar
˜ ˜
Mini Wagyu burgers/caramelised onion/garlic aioli Wild mushroom arancini/truffle mayonnaise 1ST Quail ballotine rolled with pork farce/Jerusalem artichoke purée/ smoked baby onions, shaved radish and organic dutch carrots
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Tempura zucchini flower/mango, lychee, heirloom cherry tomato salsa/ micro herbs/balsamic reduction – Vegan Option 2ND Slow-braised pork belly/apple purée/watercress/ shaved fennel/rhubarb dressing
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Mushroom and truffle risotto/truffle cream/ shaved Parmesan – Vegan Option 3RD Eye fillet/garlic and thyme roasted Kipfler potato in duck fat/ tempura zucchini flower/ blistered cherry tomatoes/Shiraz red wine jus
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Pumpkin gnocchi/seasonal baby vegetables/ pumpkin purée/baby beets/Persian feta – Vegan Option 4TH Deconstructed mille-feuilles/crème fraîche vanilla Chantilly/ sweetened puff pastry/raspberries and blueberries/ fresh strawberries/micro mint
Gala Dinner
7
ERGON ENERGY FLOWER, FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL
ergon energy flower, food & wine festival
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
food & wine
bliss Welcome. Ergon Energy is proud to support the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers for the 16th consecutive year and for the eighth time as a Foundation Partner. The Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival is a true community event, which brings together businesses, residents, community groups, volunteers and visitors. Ergon Energy continues to invest in the future of the Toowoomba region to ensure it has a safe and reliable power supply. We also seek to enhance the community by supporting events such as the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival, so why not join us to celebrate the very best of what this region has to offer? Ian McLeod, Chief Executive, Ergon Energy
The Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival has become a signature event of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Program, showcasing the story of our region through spectacular floral displays, intriguing handcrafted creations, magnificent regional produce and boutique wines. Highly acclaimed live music acts and other captivating performances accentuate the vibrant festival atmosphere. Residents of Toowoomba and its surrounding districts are joined by tourists from far and wide as they come together to sample our fine regional fare and enjoy a taste of our colourful Garden City at the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival. As the demand for Southern Queensland Country produce around the world continues to grow, festival participants can be among the first to enjoy our region’s latest offerings,
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and stock up on some well-known favourites at the same time. With floral art and interactive workshops, Culture to Couture fashions, Farm to Plate cooking demonstrations, landscaping displays and an amazing interactive Play Space for the kids, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
senses
DATE Friday 19 to Sunday 21 September 2014
TIME Friday & Saturday: 10am to 10pm Sunday: 10am to 9pm
LOCATION Upper Queens Park, Margaret & Lindsay Streets, Toowoomba
BOOK ONLINE tcof.com.au
Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival
9
Gardening guru Josh Byrne and celebrity chef James Reeson from Alive and Cooking are among the leading gardening and culinary experts whose demonstrations are sure to delight and inspire.
celebrity chef
Jaomnes Rees
Staged over three days, this year the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival will move to a larger space within the beautiful surrounds of Queens Park to accommodate the numerous market stalls and activities. Consider a three-day pass and allow time to really immerse yourself in the many offerings of this fabulous event.
BOUTIQUE WINES
paleo chef
Jen Shaw
Enjoy more than 20 “cellar doors” all within a short stroll as local awardwinning and family-owned wineries come together to showcase our region’s finest boutique wines. Our passionate and knowledgeable winemakers are keen to introduce their latest specialty releases and will be offering wine tastings and food pairing experiences to help guide your selections. Whether it’s a light and crisp white, a full-bodied red, a dessert sticky, or something inbetween, you are sure to find a new favourite at this year’s festival.
THE FARM TO PLATE SPACE Farm to Plate is where our regional food story comes to life! Savour the best of what our region has to offer with tasting opportunities from 10am to 6pm daily and be inspired as our finest local produce takes centre stage each day during live cooking demonstrations in the Farm to Plate Space. James Reeson
farm fresh
Look out for special guest, celebrity chef James Reeson from Australia’s hottest television cooking show, Alive and Cooking. Originally from the UK and having honed his craft around the world, James rates Australia as being without peer for diversity of produce and innovation of cuisine. Just wait till you see what he creates with our fabulous and fresh Southern Queensland Country regional produce!
Jen Shaw Paleo Chef Jen Shaw is passionate about simplifying food and promoting better health, happiness and longevity by eating as our ancestors ate. Founder of Jen’s Paleo Kitchen, Jen shares her real food recipes and ideas for gluten, grain and refined sugar free cooking with lots of fun and laughter. More and more people around the world are raving about the benefits they have discovered by adopting a paleo lifestyle. Come and watch a demonstration by Jen to find out what all the fuss is about! Wine Appreciation Ever wondered what terms like “buttery”, “earthy” and “velvety” mean when used to describe wine? What are “floral notes” and “hints of chocolate” doing in your glass? Learn how to taste and describe wine in the free wine appreciation sessions held in the Farm to Plate Space, then wander through the pop-up cellar doors of our local boutique wineries and try out your new-found knowledge.
CULTURE TO COUTURE SPACE Culture to Couture continues to unravel the story of promising fashion design talent. Under the guidance of award-winning designer and stylist, Carolyn TaylorSmith, budding designers have the opportunity to translate regional inspirations into high-end fashion, and ultimately enjoy the thrill of seeing their creations come to life as they are modelled throughout the festival. Spectators will likewise be delighted as they join the designers’ journey from the initial concept stages through to stunning completion. Culture to Couture is a celebration of the culture, agriculture and horticulture of our bountiful region as expressed through beautiful natural fabrics and inspired design. A mustsee for every fashionista!
#tcof2014
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
FLORAL DESIGN Welcome Wona Bae Award-winning sculptor and Master Floral Designer Wona Bae is our special guest in 2014. Based in Melbourne, Wona has exhibited internationally in Germany, Malaysia and South Korea. An interest in the cycles of nature informs Wona’s sculpture. Simplicity and harmony are her key ideals as she explores a broad palette of natural materials from native dry woods to tropical vine leaves and redefines the perception of each substance in new and stimulating forms. Having worked with natural materials consistently over many years in various disciplines including fashion, horticulture, floral design and sculpture, Wona’s ability to visually articulate the beauty in organic materials will both captivate and inspire. Wona firmly believes that everyone has the potential to transform natural materials into artistic creations. On Friday 19 September, Wona is encouraging all who are interested to participate in a special community installation which will become a centrepiece of the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival. This organic workshop will run for the whole day and is sure to bring out the floral designer and/or sculptor in everybody - man, woman and child! Floral Design Competition Now in its 10th year, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Floral Design Competition is widely recognised as a premier event on the Australian floral design calendar. With a firm reputation for high calibre design, the event attracts both well-established and emerging talent from all around the nation, as well as a loyal following of flower lovers keen to experience the latest and most spectacular floral design creations. For the first time, the 2014 competition will include displays featured at various locations throughout Queens Park, both inand outdoors! Participating designers and artists will showcase their talents
with designs positioned along the Avenue of Trees, as well as within the gallery style format which has seen this competition rise to the elite level within Australian floral design. Ready, Steady, Snip It’s designer against the clock in this fun, round-robin, floral design competition. Each participant is allocated an identical selection of materials and with the clock ticking, there will be a flower and foliage frenzy as designers aim to complete a unique floral masterpiece before the final buzzer. Join the fun and be sure to vote for your favourite as the two floral designers winning the most applause will then go head to head. Top prize goes to the designer who creates the most outstanding table setting for four guests. Meanwhile, guest celebrity chef, James Reeson, also working against the clock, has to prepare, cook and present one course for each table. It’s a spectacle not to be missed!
floral displays
see the work of a master ner ig s e d l a r flo
WoBnaae
Changing Blooms Surrounded by so much floral design inspiration, don’t miss your chance to make your own creative mark on this year’s festival with Changing Blooms. This large scale floral installation is a collaboration between floral designers and festival-goers, working together to create a series of floral scenes that intertwine and continuously unfold during each day of the festival. Come and join the fun - the only limit is your imagination!
FRESH FLOWER MARKET Take the time to admire all the spectacular varieties of freshly cut flowers and speak with the friendly market operators to learn how to best care for your blooms. Conveniently located at the festival’s exit, the Fresh Flower Market is the perfect spot to find a beautiful bunch of flowers so you can take a little piece of Carnival home with you.
BOOK ONLINE tcof.com.au
Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival
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THE GARDEN SPACE Best known as a presenter on ABC TV’s Gardening Australia, bestselling author of The Green Gardener and Small Space Organics, Josh Byrne will be this year’s special guest in the Garden Space. Josh will be hosting three sessions during the festival with demonstrations and Q&A components on:
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• Creating an edible landscape: Food gardening doesn’t have to be limited to a veggie bed and fruit trees tucked down the back. Josh will showcase creative ways to weave edible species throughout your garden to provided multiple benefits and year-round food.
Joshe Byrn
• Secrets to successful organic gardening: Healthy gardens are living gardens and Josh reckons there’s no room for poisonous and disruptive chemicals. He’ll share his approach to organic growing that will help you get the most out of your backyard, naturally. • Green home, green garden: How we design and manage our gardens can make a big impact on the performance of our homes and our environmental footprint. Josh will demonstrate clever ways to reduce your energy and water. While you are in the Garden Space, wander through and find out what’s new in outdoor design and decor and see the latest trends and innovations in landscaping and gardening.
roses for Dorothy
THE PLAY SPACE The Play Space is an amazing interactive space designed especially for children. There is a dedicated children’s program running over the three days of the festival and children of all ages are welcome to come and play, design, build, discover, draw, dig, cook and create! In addition to an impressive line-up of live shows, there are also Kids in the Kitchen workshops, Kids Gardening classes with resident green thumb Brian Sams, and a myriad of hands-on creative activities with Kath Dickson Family Centres and
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
Artsorted Worx. From crafting floral headbands to constructing miniature towns, there is so much to keep the kids amused. Dorothy the Dinosaur Everyone’s favourite Wiggle friend, Dorothy the Dinosaur will be performing a LIVE SHOW on the Main Stage on Saturday at 11:30am. Kids, why not bring along a beautiful Toowoomba rose for Dorothy, or perhaps a drawing of one? Dorothy just loves roses! My City Garden Learn all about keeping your own chickens with talks by My City Garden. They will also be talking about native bees in the garden and show how you can help your garden thrive with a little insect insight. Silly Billies A spectacular live comedy variety show of sing-along, dance-along fun with human size puppet characters. This lively, fast paced show is best suited for children from Kindergarten to Year 5 and is guaranteed to have the whole family laughing!
HAND MADE IN COUNTRY MARKET Many of our region’s most gifted artisans will be displaying their wares at the Hand Made in Country Market in 2014. With a large range of beautiful products on display and available to purchase, take time to appreciate the extraordinary work of these talented textile artists and silversmiths as well as a wonderful selection of other handcrafts and gifts. View masterpieces in the making as Cobb & Co Museum presents live demonstrations by members of the Hand Made in Country Artisans Network, or release the artist within and enjoy the chance to get hands-on with any of the many creative activities on offer.
PLATINUM AREA Seasoned festival-goers are always on the lookout for a well-positioned VIP area! As a Carnival first in 2014, you are able to purchase Platinum tickets at just $120#* per head each concert-filled day, including your festival entry. These are the best seats in the house (park) and will provide access to the Platinum marquee which has strictly limited and comfortable seating, private bathroom facilities, and an exclusively Platinum cash bar serving a selection of regional wines in addition to beer and soft drinks. Avoid the pumping crowd and watch this year’s fantastic line-up of musical performances in style!
new VP area!
Also included in your Platinum ticket is your first drink, and a meal of your choice from the festival food outlets. Platinum tickets can only be purchased online, make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.
FAMILY ^# $160 *
SINGLE ADULT #
TICKETING INFORMATION
$70 *
DAILY TICKET PRICE* On sale from 1 August 2014 $30 Adult - $25 Student Pass - $20 Concession - $12 Child - $60 Family^ - $120 Platinum Area # FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER - 10am to 10pm WHAT YOU GET • Entry to Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival incorporating Heritage Bank Live Concert Series 2014
• Morning concert for kids featuring Silly Billies and Farmer Rob
• James Reeson Cooking Demonstration – Three sessions
• C hanging Blooms
• Jen Shaw Paleo Cooking Demonstration – Two sessions
• Ready, Steady, Snip! Competition
• Josh Byrne Gardening Demonstration – Three sessions
• Hand Made in Country Exhibition
• Wine Appreciation – Two sessions
• Evening concerts featuring Jeremy Neale, The Kite String Tangle and San Cisco
• National Floral Design display
• Floral Design Competition displays
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SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER - 10am to 10pm WHAT YOU GET • Entry to Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival incorporating Heritage Bank Live Concert Series 2014
• Floral Design Competition displays
• James Reeson Cooking Demonstration – Three sessions
• Ready, Steady, Snip! Competition
• Jen Shaw Paleo Cooking Demonstration – Two sessions
• Hand Made in Country Exhibition
• Josh Byrne Gardening Demonstration – Three sessions
• Culture to Couture Pop-up Fashion Parades
• Wine Appreciation – Three sessions
• Kids’ Play Space – Cooking and DIY activities
• National Floral Design display
• Evening concerts featuring Tim Campbell’s High School Disco, Killer Queen and ICEHOUSE
• Morning concert for kids featuring Dorothy the Dinosaur
• C hanging Blooms
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER - 10am to 9pm WHAT YOU GET • Entry to Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival incorporating Heritage Bank Live Concert Series 2014
• C hanging Blooms
• James Reeson Cooking Demonstration – Three sessions
• Hand Made in Country Exhibition
• Jen Shaw Paleo Cooking Demonstration – Two sessions
• Culture to Couture Pop-up Fashion Parades
• Josh Byrne Gardening Demonstration – Three sessions
• Kids’ Play Space – Cooking and DIY activities
• Wine Appreciation – Three sessions
• Afternoon concert featuring Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier, followed by Something for Kate and in the evening Saskwatch, followed by Björn Again
• National Floral Design display • Floral Design Competition displays
• Ready, Steady, Snip! Semi-Final and Grand Final
Ticket holders must be present when purchasing tickets from the gate. Tickets cannot be purchased for family and friends who are not present. Tickets available for pre-purchase prior to the event from the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers website: www.tcof.com.au. Limited pre-purchase tickets available; book early to avoid disappointment. Adult: 16 years and above; Child: 15 years and under; children 2 years and under are FREE. Licensed event – no BYO food or drinks. ID must be produced upon entry by patrons over 18 years of age wishing to consume alcohol. ^Family: 2 adults and up to 3 children; full child ticket price applies to any additional children. #Available for pre-purchase online only. *A surcharge of 2.9% applies to all credit card transactions both online and at the gate.
Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival
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at a glance… FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER TIMES
MAIN STAGE
10am - 10:30am
Farmer Rob
10:30am - 11am
FARM TO PLATE James Reeson
11am - 11:30am 11:30am - 12pm 12pm - 12:30pm 12:30pm - 1pm
GARDEN PAVILION
FLORAL
Josh Byrne
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen Silly Billies
Wine Appreciation
Ready, Steady, Snip
1pm - 1:30pm James Reeson
1:30pm - 2pm 2pm - 2:30pm 2:30pm - 3pm
Josh Byrne
Changing Blooms
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen
3:30pm - 4pm 4pm - 4:30pm
5pm - 5:30pm
Wine Appreciation Calais
Closed for school activities
Ready, Steady, Snip
3pm - 3:30pm
4:30pm - 5pm
PLAY SPACE
Josh Byrne Cobb & Co demonstration
James Reeson
5:30pm - 6pm 6pm - 6:30pm 6:30pm - 7pm
Jeremy Neale
7pm - 7:30pm 7:30pm - 8pm 8pm - 8:30pm
The Kite String Tangle
8:30pm - 9pm 9pm - 9:30pm 9:30pm - 10pm
San Cisco
SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER TIMES
MAIN STAGE
FARM TO PLATE
GARDEN PAVILION
FLORAL
PLAY SPACE
10am - 10:30am 10:30am - 11am
Red Rocket 3
11am - 11:30am
James Reeson
11:30am - 12pm
Dorothy the Dinosaur
12pm - 12:30pm
Red Rocket 3
12:30pm - 1pm
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
Josh Byrne
Wine Appreciation
Ready, Steady, Snip
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen
1pm - 1:30pm
Live chicken talk James Reeson
1:30pm - 2pm 2pm - 2:30pm 2:30pm - 3pm
Josh Byrne
3:30pm - 4pm
Cobb & Co demonstration
4pm - 4:30pm
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen
4:30pm - 5pm 5pm - 5:30pm
6pm - 6:30pm
James Reeson Tim Campbell’s High School Disco
Wine Appreciation
6:30pm - 7pm 7pm - 7:30pm 7:30pm - 8pm
Killer Queen
8pm - 8:30pm 8:30pm - 9pm 9pm - 9:30pm
Changing Blooms
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
Wine Appreciation
3pm - 3:30pm
5:30pm - 6pm
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
ICEHOUSE
9:30pm - 10pm
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
Josh Byrne
Ready, Steady, Snip
Live chicken talk
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER TIMES
MAIN STAGE
FARM TO PLATE
GARDEN PAVILION
FLORAL
PLAY SPACE
10am - 10:30am 10:30am - 11am 11am - 11:30am 11:30am - 12pm 12pm - 12:30pm 12:30pm - 1pm 1pm - 1:30pm
Linda Capewell
Cool Nights Big Band Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier
James Reeson Josh Byrne
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen
3pm - 3:30pm 3:30pm - 4pm
Patrick James
4pm - 4:30pm 4:30pm - 5pm 5pm - 5:30pm
Ready, Steady, Snip
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
Ready, Steady, Snip
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel Chicken & native bee talk
James Reeson & Ready, Steady, Snip Final Cobb & Co demonstration Wine Appreciation
Something for Kate
Changing Blooms
Josh Byrne
2pm - 2:30pm 2:30pm - 3pm
Chicken & native bee talk
James Reeson
Wine Appreciation
1:30pm - 2pm
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
Brian Sams & Chef Carmel
Josh Byrne
Jen Shaw – Paleo Kitchen
5:30pm - 6pm 6pm - 6:30pm 6:30pm - 7pm
Saskwatch
Wine Appreciation
7pm - 7:30pm 7:30pm - 8pm 8pm - 8:30pm
Björn Again
8:30pm - 9pm Information correct at time of printing.
park & ride: the perfect way to get around On Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September, simply park at the Kearneys Spring Historical Park in Spring St, or at any one of the following collection points and hop on the next FREE shuttle bus, and avoid trying to find a carpark at some of the most popular Carnival destinations.
• Picnic Point Bus Zone One opposite the park
Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes from Kearneys Spring Historical Park and complete a circuit of the following locations between 9:30am and 4:30pm:
During the evenings, there is an express service from Kearneys Spring Historical Park to Queens Park and the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival incorporating the Heritage Bank Live Concert Series.
• Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival, Upper Queens Park cnr Margaret and Lindsay Sts • Laurel Bank Park, Hill St next to park entrance driveway
avoid parking hassle FREE SHUTTLES
EVERY
30 MINUTES Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival
15
HERITAGE BANK LIVE CONCERT SERIES
heritage bank live concert series
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
Welcome. Heritage Bank has been a proud part of the Toowoomba community since we first started business here back in 1875. That’s given us a long history of helping local residents achieve their financial dreams. It’s also given us a long track record of supporting the events and activities that have built this community’s identity. Few events do that better than the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. The Carnival
is a core part of this region’s identity. It’s an icon for residents and one of the reasons it’s great to call the Darling Downs home. We are delighted that our sponsorship of the Carnival helps make possible an event that is so important for this community. John Minz, Chief Executive Officer, Heritage Bank
#tcof2014
APPEARING ON THE HERITAGE BANK COMMUNITY STAGE FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER WHO YOU SEE
TIMES
Jeremy Neale
6pm
The Kite String Tangle
7:30pm
San Cisco
9pm
e l b a r o mem
livge igs
SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER WHO YOU SEE
TIMES
Tim Campbell’s High School Disco
5:30pm
Killer Queen
7pm
ICEHOUSE
8:45pm
SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER WHO YOU SEE
TIMES
Deborah Conway & Willy Zygier
12.30pm
Something for Kate
4:30pm
Saskwatch
6pm
Björn Again
7.30pm
Ticket holders must be present when purchasing tickets from the gate. Concerts are included in admission to the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival. A limited number of tickets for the Festival are available for pre-purchase through the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers website: www.tcof.com.au. Please refer to the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival (page 13) for entry prices and licensing conditions. This is an open–air concert and no refunds apply. Please refer to www.tcof.com.au for detailed Ticket Sale Policies and Conditions of Entry.
Heritage Bank Live Concert Series
17
DATE Friday 19 to Sunday 21 September 2014
TIME Friday & Saturday: 10am to 10pm Sunday: 10am to 9pm
LOCATION
Jeremy Neale
Upper Queens Park, Margaret & Lindsay Streets, Toowoomba
friday tcof2014 JEREMY NEALE Following on from his successful debut EP In Stranger Times and his recent tour of the UK, Triple J Unearthed talent Jeremy Neale is slotted as the first to perform in this year’s fantastic festival line-up. With Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Zombies and The Monkees all influencing his 1960s summer pop style, this twenty-something crooner from Brisbane has an infectious energy on stage. Described as “the Harlem Globetrotters of live music” (Charles Barkley, 2013) Jeremy Neale’s upbeat performance will have every festival toe tapping from the very first note.
e t i K e Th tring S ngle Ta
THE KITE STRING TANGLE Alternative electronic artist and producer Danny Harley brings his unique solo project The Kite String Tangle to this year’s festival stage. A seamless blend of ethereal pop with darker shades of ambient, electronic music, The Kite String Tangle has already performed to packed out venues across Australia in two sold out national tours and at the popular South by South-West (SXSW) music festival in the United States. Enjoy tracks from The Kite String Tangle’s recently released and hotly anticipated debut EP and prepare to be mesmerised by distinctive sounds and exquisitely melancholic vocal.
SAN CISCO
Sasnco Ci Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
Already having cemented their indie-pop status with three ARIA Award nominations, multiple songs being voted into Triple J’s Hottest 100 and sell-out performances to Australian audiences, San Cisco are now taking the rest of the world by storm. Best known for their quirky call-and-response single, Awkward, this sunny four piece from Fremantle has been making catchy, upbeat music since they started playing together in high school. They now travel the globe and have performed in the US as well as in the UK and Europe. Their debut album was nominated for Best Pop Release in 2013.
Timpbell’s Caigmh School H
Disco
saturday
TIM CAMPBELL’S HIGH SCHOOL DISCO Popularly known as Home and Away’s Dan Baker, Tim Campbell has a raft of television and movie roles in both Australia and the US under his belt. He has also taken to the theatrical stage with performances in musicals in Sydney and Melbourne and played the lead role of Johnny O’Keefe to critical acclaim in Shout! The Legend of the Wild One.
K Quielelner
Hot on the heels of his national High School Disco tour, Tim will be rocking the festival stage with tracks from his album of the same name. Laugh or cry as you reminisce your high school days with favourite hits from the 70s and 80s.
KILLER QUEEN In a performance guaranteed to blow your mind, Killer Queen will transport you with their uncanny resemblance to the original British rock quartet Queen and their ability to faithfully reproduce their expert and unique musicianship. Killer Queen’s fully costumed presentation and attention to fine detail pays homage to one of the greatest acts the world has ever seen and they have received rave reviews for their performances all over the world. This is a powerhouse show that it was once thought only the original Queen could perform.
ICEHOUSE Ever popular Australian rock legends ICEHOUSE will have everyone singing along in an exciting Saturday night show at Carnival. Their catalogue of anthems is drawn from an amazing eight Top 10 albums and over thirty Top 40 singles including We Can Get Together, Electric Blue, Hey Little Girl, Crazy and of course, Great Southern Land. Re-releases of all the band’s albums over the past few years, including the platinum-selling White Heat: 30 Hits compilation, prompted Iva Davies to return the band to live performances after a 16 year hiatus. The results in 2011 and 2012 were outstanding: sell-out shows, screaming fans, encore performances and a revitalised audience for this iconic band. They’re looking forward to seeing their Toowoomba friends and fans at the show.
CEHOUSE
Heritage Bank Live Concert Series
19
Deborah Conway Willy Zygier
sunday
don t fourgse!t to tag #tcof2014
DEBORAH CONWAY & WILLY ZYGIER
h c t a w k s Sa
From the moment her band Do Re Mi released Man Overboard in 1985, Deborah Conway has been recognised as a significant and eloquent contributor to Australian music. Her powerful and compelling voice delivers songs that chronicle the essential elements of life, love and loss; and her partnership (both in life and music) with the talented Willy Zygier has produced an outstanding ten albums which have repeatedly added unusual textures to prevailing music trends. With hits like It’s Only the Beginning, Release Me and String of Pearls, Deborah has won a Best Female ARIA award. Haunting and unforgettable, Deborah Conway’s voice will stay with you long after her performance ends.
SASKWATCH
Somethateing for K
Bjorn Again
With ecstatic horns, one of the tightest rhythm sections going, and Nkechi Anele’s soaring vocals, nine-piece Melbourne ensemble Saskwatch is gaining a reputation as one of Australia’s most electrifying live acts. Capable of breaking hearts one minute and eliciting frenzied dancing the next, Saskwatch’s special brand of soul has also graced the world stage, and has included performances at the BlackisBack festival in Spain as well as the world’s biggest music festival, Glastonbury. With three nods in Triple J’s Hottest 100 and this year’s release of their second album, Nose Dive, gaining momentum, Saskwatch look set to be lighting up stages for many years to come.
SOMETHING FOR KATE As part of their twenty-year anniversary celebrations, Something for Kate are bringing one of their most ambitious shows to date to the Heritage Bank Live Concert Series. The show features a string of hits from their ARIA charts topping albums, and other sophisticated and stirring tunes from their successful six-studio-album career. Having taken out numerous awards for Best Live Band and with previous tours having sold out within a matter of minutes of release, Something for Kate has been lauded by Rolling Stone Magazine as having produced “some of the finest examples of music this country has to offer”. Don’t miss your chance to come along and see why!
BJÖRN AGAIN What better way to finish off this year’s fantastic line-up of live acts than with a little bit of ABBA? Internationally acclaimed and with the endorsement of the members of the original Swedish pop sensation, Björn Again perform everyone’s favourite sing-along ABBA hits like Take a Chance on Me, Waterloo, and Money, Money, Money to perfection. Sequined costumes, Swedish accents and electric ABBA energy will rock the festival stage in an absolutely outstanding tribute show which has been delighting audiences and die-hard ABBA fans all over the world for twenty-five years. Unleash your inner dancing queen at this year’s Carnival - you know you want to!
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
for your chance to win tickets, check our facebook page
BOOK ONLINE tcof.com.au
#tcof2014
GRAND CENTRAL FLORAL PARADE
grand central f loral parade
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
DATE Saturday 20 September 2014
TIME 3pm (arrive at 2pm to receive a FREE Parade Cheering Stick)
LOCATION
floats & fun
Please refer to map below
Welcome. Grand Central is the proud foundation sponsor of the 2014 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Floral Parade. The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has become an iconic community event and we are honoured to have been a foundation partner for more than 18 years. The Grand Central Floral Parade is a colourful and exciting event for the whole family that you won’t want to miss! Shaine Beveridge, Centre Manager, Grand Central GRAND CENTRAL FLORAL PARADE
floats glide by. Remember, this much-loved event attracts tens of thousands of people annually, so arrive early to secure the best spot and your complimentary Parade Cheering Stick!
Now in its 65 year and always a favourite with young and old, Carnival’s famous Grand Central Floral Parade will wind its spectacular multi-coloured way through the heart of the city to Queens Park on Saturday 20 September. The Floral Parade’s theme for 2014 is “Storybook of Colour” and this year the procession will be led by towering, life-size, animatronic Dinosaurs! th
FREE pavement chalk will also be distributed by volunteers for paradegoers to make their own artistic mark on the parade route prior to its commencement.
Feel the city’s heart beating to the sounds of the live band entertainment and join in the jawdropping, eye-widening fun as street performers, carnival characters, stilt walkers and elaborately decorated fresh floral CH
A
LK
DR
Finish
RUSSELL ST
QUEENS PARK HUME ST
ER
N HE
NEIL ST
TC ST
HERRIES ST
KI
RUTHVEN ST
MARGARET ST
LINDSAY ST
At the conclusion of the Parade, the fun continues at the Godsall Street Oval where floats are on display for closer viewing and where entrants will be selling the potted colour, cut flowers and fruits and vegetables which have adorned their floats. What a fabulous memento to take home with you!
s r e w flogalore
N
streets
of colour
Start
Grand Central Floral Parade
23
SIDESHOW ALLEY
sideshow alley
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
DATE Friday 19 to Sunday 21 September 2014
COST FREE entry (prices apply for some rides and activities)
FREE
LOCATION
ENTRY!
Frogs Hollow, Lower Queens Park, Margaret St, Toowoomba
Sideshow Alley brings all the fun of the fair to town! Located in Lower Queens Park, there is plenty of amusement with thrill-seeking rides, traditional fair food including fairy floss and dagwood dogs, as well as everyone’s favourite show bags. Try your hand at winning a top shelf prize at one of the many amusement stalls, or enjoy a birdseye view upside down from Australia’s newest extreme 360° ride. Sideshow Alley is a childhood must-do (and lots of fun for the grown-ups too!)
JUSTICE CREW Australia’s Got Talent winners, Justice Crew continue to wow audiences around the world with their urban pop and energetic dance moves. With the success of their recently released single Que Sera following on from the successes of their N° 1 ARIA hit single Boom Boom and two Top Ten ARIA hit singles Best Night and Everybody, Justice Crew have proved that their talent is not only special and versatile, but that they will continue to prevail. Be sure to catch Justice Crew performing LIVE at Sideshow Alley from 3:30pm Sunday!
e c i t s u J Crew
PLUS! Go in the draw for your chance to be one of two incredibly lucky fans to have a special “Meet and Greet” with Justice Crew backstage! To enter, simply purchase 40 Sideshow Alley coupons for $60, a saving of $20! JUSTICE CREW DATE
TIME
Sunday 21 September
3:30pm
FIREWORKS & LIGHT SPECTACULAR What’s a carnival without fireworks? Friday and Sunday nights will both see the Toowoomba night sky light up with dazzling fireworks displays. The Saturday night show will be even bigger and brighter with the Fire & Light Spectacular a stunning laser light show which will form part of the night-sky extravaganza from 8:30pm.
f u n times ahead
FIREWORKS & LIGHT SPECTACULAR DATE
TIME
Friday 19 September (Fireworks)
8:30pm
Saturday 20 September (Fireworks & Light Spectacular)
8:30pm
Sunday 21 September (Fireworks)
7:30pm
Sideshow Alley
25
magician
#tcof2014
Mike Tyler Magic MIKE TYLER MAGIC
Mike Tyler is an outstanding magician, mentalist and comedy hypnotist who has combined his insane sleight of hand with unfathomable mind trickery to the head-scratching delight of audiences around the world. Mike Tyler’s Magic Mystery Mayhem Megashow at 7:30pm on Saturday will be the magic show to end all magic shows. Take a seat and try not to blink - you won’t want to miss a second of it! MIKE TYLER MAGIC
a fair with flair
DATE
TIME
Saturday 20 September
2pm, 5pm and 7:30pm
Sunday 21 September
1:30pm and 5pm
AUSTRALIAN DANCE BATTLE The weekend of entertainment begins Friday evening with the Australian Dance Battle Sideshow Alley Competition, 6pm - 10pm (registrations start at 4pm). There is a total cash prize pool of $2,500, plus lots of other prizes up for grabs. Dance alone or tee up some friends and dance together, but start practising so you can put on those dancing shoes and show us your moves! Register online at www.qjam.com.au Call 4646 4299 for more information, or email dance@qjam.com.au SENIOR CREW COMPETITION
whoarties mem aree of mad Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
AGE REQUIREMENT
PRIZE
13 years to adult
$1,000 Prize Money
JUNIOR CREW COMPETITION AGE REQUIREMENT
PRIZE
6 to 12 years
$1,000 Prize Money
OPEN SOLO ALL-STYLES BATTLE AGE REQUIREMENT
PRIZE
Open age competition
$500 Prize Money
don’t miss this year’s fireworks & laser light show DATE
TIME
Friday 19 September (Fireworks)
8:30pm
Saturday 20 September (Fireworks & Light Spectacular)
8:30pm
Sunday 21 September (Fireworks)
7:30pm
FREE EVENT
#tcof2014
THE CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION
the chronicle garden competition
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
spring at its
Welcome. The Chronicle Garden Competition has been one of the signature events of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers since the first Carnival 65 years ago. The Chronicle’s multimedia coverage of Toowoomba’s Carnival will feature stories and pictures daily in The Chronicle for our regional readers, and online photo galleries and video for a global audience.
especially those who enter their magnificent gardens in The Chronicle Garden Competition.
We offer a special thank you to the hard-working gardeners of Toowoomba and surrounds and
Rohan Gosstray, General Manager, The Chronicle
best
We trust the thousands of visitors to Toowoomba will enjoy the splendid flower displays and the events that help make the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers one of Queensland’s most memorable festival experiences.
vibranetns
THE CHRONICLE GARDEN COMPETITION Known as “The Garden City”, it is not only the beautiful parklands and public gardens which have earned Toowoomba its reputation as one of Australia’s most abundantly blossoming cities. Toowoomba is also home to thousands of passionate gardeners who labour lovingly year-round in our wonderfully fertile soils and temperate climate to transform their private gardens into spectacular floral showpieces. The Chronicle Garden Competition offers visitors the opportunity to explore beautiful gardens, and entrants the chance to be rewarded for all of their hard work. With more than 40 categories, all gardeners - whether new or established, commercial or domestic, suburban or rural - will have the opportunity to show off their eye-pleasing plantings. And with so many magnificent gardens and stunning displays to
explore, The Chronicle is offering readers a competition souvenir guide and map in their Friday 19 September edition. Copies can also be collected from the Visitor Information Centre, 86 James St (Warrego Highway), Toowoomba. For more information contact The Chronicle on 07 4690 9300 or the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre on FREECALL 1800 33 11 55.
DATE
gard
finest private gardens
Sunday 28 September 2014
COST FREE or gold coin donation
LOCATION Maps available in The Chronicle (Friday 19 September edition)
The Chronicle Garden Competition
29
“Last year we had over 20,000 people come through our garden. People came from places as far away as Alaska, China and France and told us they had never seen anything like this in their country.” Kevin Drew, award-winning gardener and entrant.
the chronicle exhibition gardens The splendour of September is on display at the four private gardens selected as Toowoomba’s finest for 2014. A self-guided tour of The Chronicle Exhibition Gardens is truly a feast for the senses as the delightful fragrances of thousands of stunning spring blooms waft in the air and artistic collaborations of colour are a sight to behold.
feast foserntsehse
We are most fortunate that our resident master gardeners are happy to share their beautiful creations throughout the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. All gardening enthusiasts have the opportunity to experience the breathtaking results, be inspired, and perhaps learn a tip or two from those who do it best.
GARDEN NAME
ADDRESS
Ron & Val Peachey
5 Fern Drive, Toowoomba
Sue Hawkins
37 Murphy’s Creek Road, Toowoomba
Marj & Philip Martin
17 Dallang Road, Toowoomba
Edwin & Lesley Dean
41 Stenner Street, Toowoomba
What does it cost? A small admission fee is payable on entry to The Chronicle Exhibition Gardens of 2014, with all proceeds going to nominated charities. The Chronicle Exhibition Gardens Brochure is available from the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre from September. Direct any enquiries to The Chronicle on 07 4690 9300.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
GARDEN ENTRY
PRICE
1 garden
$5
3 gardens
$10
All 4 gardens
$12
SPRING SOIRÉE
spring soirée DATE Saturday 27 September 2014
COST >12 and Adults $30 Child <12 Free
TIME
Niocnk Sax
5:30pm
LOCATION Secret location!
Add a little mystery to your life with a “Spring Soirée”. The evening’s intrigue includes three acts, but for now you will only know the first two, with the third act remaining a secret until just prior to the event, and the venue only to be revealed on the very afternoon of the event!
SPRING SOIRÉE Prepare to enjoy the amazing versatility of the beguiling Nick Saxon. Multi-talented Nick is both contemporary guitarist and singer/ songwriter as well as a National Geographic adventure series presenter. He draws inspiration from cultures and environments around the globe and with Cat Stevens and Tommy Emmanuel as early influences, as well as a love of reggae, you can expect a very interesting mix! Also look forward to a high impact live show by Castlecomer. Described as “one of the most exciting unsigned bands to come out of Australia in the past few years, the catchiness of their songs is second only to their musical ability. There’s no doubt that Castlecomer’s songs will be stuck in
your head on repeat for days after.” (Cate Summers, Virgin Red Room).
secret
artist...
Perhaps put together a nice little BYO hamper of your favourite concertviewing drinks and yummy nibblies. THEN, at midday on the day of the event, a message will be sent to all ticket holders via SMS, letting you know the details of the secret venue. Where will it be - a suburban backyard? A sporting oval? A CBD laneway? All will be revealed, but not just yet… Bookings Go to www.tcof.com.au and click on the link to the Spring Fling website to purchase tickets. Ticket numbers are limited, so book early as this event will sell out!
Castlecomer Spring Soirée
31
OUR PARKS
our parks
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
1,000s
of flowers
Toowoomba’s public parks are nothing short of stunning during the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. With so many acres of colourful spring blooms and carefully manicured gardens on display, it is little wonder that thousands of people tour from around the nation to visit the parks of our beautiful Garden City during Carnival.
PICNIC POINT Perched atop the Great Dividing Range escarpment, Picnic Point is famous for its panoramic views out over the valley to surrounding mountains, allowing visitors to truly appreciate Toowoomba’s high location. Virtually every Toowoomba resident who is asked by a tourist for a great place to visit - whatever the time of year - will nominate Picnic Point! Flying the enormous Australian flag which can be seen by anyone driving up the range, Picnic Point is in fact one of Queensland’s earliest tourist attractions. Whether it is the clean, crisp, mountain air, the captivating postcard views, the relaxed picnic settings, the fun play equipment or the delicious café and restaurant menus, everyone just loves to while away their time at Picnic Point! During Carnival, there will be host of talented artists performing at Picnic Point, including jazz, blues, folk, funk, soul, country, rock and roll, and big brass acts. What a fabulous spot to enjoy an ice cream on a sunny day as the music sways you.
Or why not warm up to the sound of the beat and put on your walking shoes for a stroll along the beautiful Pardalote Walk?
springer
fev
The Pardalote Walk travels along the very edge of the escarpment, taking in some of the more formal areas of the park. Accessible at a number of points along the escarpment, the full length of the walk is about 1.9km long, travelling from South Street to Lions Park. The Pardalote Walk offers spectacular views of the Lockyer Valley and Table Top Mountain. Allow approx. 45 mins to complete the walk.
DATE Friday 19 to Sunday 28 September 2014
COST FREE entry
LOCATION Local Parks (See map on page 59)
the garden city
Our Parks
33
QUEENS PARK As the picturesque location of the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival, the Heritage Bank Live Concert Series, Sideshow Alley and the finishing point for the Grand Central Floral Parade, Queens Park is the hub of Carnival excitement. Queens Park is centrally located, bordered by the main shopping and eating precinct’s camphor laurel lined avenue, Margaret Street. A muchloved Toowoomba landmark, Queens Park boasts bright flower beds, large
gardens
galore
canopies of stately trees and acres of expansive green lawns. There are two well-equipped children’s playgrounds as well as an off-leash area for dogs. During Carnival, be sure to experience all that Queens Park has to offer and take the opportunity to enjoy a huge variety of FREE parkland entertainment. There is something to suit everyone amongst this year’s planned activities.
TRIBAL BELLY-DANCING LESSONS
PARKLAND ACTIVITIES
SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER
TIME
Sway to the hypnotic rhythms and melodies of the Middle East and Africa, tribal style!
For session times visit www.tcof.com.au
DIVAS IN THE PARK SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER
TIME
A variety of popular female and classical tunes performed by two magnificent opera divas appearing in all their opera gown glory!
11am – 2pm
PILATES SESSIONS MONDAY 22 – FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
TIME
Find your balance and tone your body in a natural setting, on the lawns at the Eastern end of the park, towards Lindsay Street.
For session times visit www.tcof.com.au
TOOWOOMBA ART SOCIETY CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS MEMBERS EXHIBITION
family fun
SATURDAY 20 - SUNDAY 28 SEPTEMBER
TIME
An exhibition of members’ work selected by a panel of independent artists. On display will be the winner of the prestigious Fred Gardiner Award and the Nancy Culliford Award for the runner-up. The exhibition is themed “Spring is in the Air”, with an expected 50-60 works on display.
10am – 4pm
LOCATION 1 Godsall Street, Toowoomba (opposite Queens Park).
#tcof2014
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
LAUREL BANK PARK Just to the west of the city centre, you will find the magnificent grounds of Laurel Bank Park on Herries Street. Children will love the giant “caterpillar” and “train” shapes which have been topiary clipped into the hedges and everyone will delight in the astonishing perfumes emanating from the scented garden. Created from ideas presented by the Downs Association for the Blind, this unique
garden is bursting with scented blooms and foliage so powerful that it is able to be enjoyed even with your eyes closed. Laurel Bank Park’s stately grounds also feature a croquet lawn, graceful archways and an elevated viewing platform allowing visitors to explore the feature gardens from above. There is also a great children’s play area.
PARKLAND WONDERLAND SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER
TIME
During Carnival, Laurel Bank Park offers FREE entertainment for every member of the family, with live music performance, Parkland Wonderland. Performers dressed in Alice in Wonderland costumes will sing and entertain both young and old!
1:30pm
outodvoioer mr ience
expe
TWILIGHT TOURS MONDAY 22 – WEDNESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER
TIME
Enter the twilight zone and discover the secret world of Laurel Bank Park after dark. This is your chance to see and hear from the experts about the darker side of plant life in a one-hour nocturnal tour of Laurel Bank Park. Tour spots are limited. Book now on 131 872. Bring a torch. Make a gold coin donation.
6:30pm
FREE
FAMILY
DEVONSHIRE TEAS AT LAUREL BANK CROQUET CLUB THURSDAY 18 – SUNDAY 28 SEPTEMBER
TIME
After viewing the wonderful array of flowers and birdlife in Laurel Bank Park, why not enjoy lunch or morning/afternoon tea in the idyllic surrounds of these beautiful parklands?
9am – 4pm
OUTDOOR FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT PRESENTED BY YOUTH CONNECT FRIDAY 26 AND SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
TIME
Pack a dinner basket and bring a picnic rug or folding chairs along for an unforgettable night of fun under the stars! The giant outdoor screen will come to life with family movie screenings to celebrate that spring is finally here! Enquiries: 07 4688 6662. Entry: FREE.
6:30pm
EVENTS
tea &
treats
Our Parks
35
KIDS DAY OUT
kids day out
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
g n i l i sm es
fac
day of
play
HEY KIDS… Get ready for action, because Kids Day Out is all about you! Just when you think there can’t be any more fun, Carnival caps off its ten days of smiles with a lively and entertaining Kids Day Out. Every conceivable kid-pleasing activity is on offer with baby animals to cuddle, face-painting, balloon animals, jumping castles and storytelling. There is also a host of new activities in 2014 including a rock climbing wall. Kids Day Out presents the perfect day of play. Little ones will be kept busy for hours, and Mums and Dads have plenty to keep themselves entertained as well. The Queens Park Markets will be held on the same day, and there are also heaps of fun sporting activities for the whole family. Whether you are a keen sporting family or you’d just like to have a go at something new, get your sneakers on and come and join the fun!
DIRTGIRL IS COMING TO KIDS DAY OUT! ABC’s favourite gumboot-wearing, tractor-driving, nature-loving character is coming to encourage kids of all ages to “go get grubby” in our big, beautiful outside world! dirtgirl’s interactive shows engage the children in the audience to help her with her quest and are full of songs and games which the kids will love. There will be three fun-filled dirtgirl appearances, with LIVE SHOWS at 9.30am and 11.30am and a “meet and greet” at 10.30! The dirtgirl Activity Centre will operate from 9am - 12pm.
DATE Sunday 28 September 2014
COST
DIRT GIRL FREE EVENT
FREE entry
TIME 9am – 12pm
LOCATION Upper Queens Park, Cnr Lindsay & Margaret Streets, Toowoomba
© 2009 dirtgirlworld productions pty ltd and DECODE/Dirtgirl Productions Inc. dirtgirlworld is a trademark of dirtgirlworld productions pty ltd and Decode Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Kids Day Out
37
TASTES OF THE REGION
tastes of the region
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
tantalising
flavours Enjoy some tantalising tastes of the region with Special Carnival Offers from these outstanding Toowoomba restaurants.
THE ANGEL CAFÉ The Angel Café is a fully licensed restaurant and espresso bar serving Modern Australian cuisine with a focus on our region’s quality produce. There is an extensive wine list as well as coffees to suit the most discerning of palates and over 50 varieties of tea. Gluten free, vegetarian and children’s menu options are also available.
SPECIAL CARNIVAL OFFER “Signature Mayor’s Dinner” $50pp* Enjoy a fabulous four-course set menu dinner Wed - Sat nights during Carnival.
The Angel Café offers a full à la carte menu all day, everyday, so whether you feel like a scrumptious cake for breakfast or hearty bacon and eggs for afternoon tea, every culinary whim is catered for!
An outstanding selection of dishes made from fresh Southern Queensland Country regional produce, the set menu includes Banyard Birds quail, Tillari Trotters slow-braised pork belly, Killarney eye fillet, and a deconstructed millefeuilles with locally grown berries.
Location: Southtown Shopping Centre, Cnr South & Ramsay Sts, Toowoomba
Available Wed - Sat nights from 19-28 September.
Opening hours: Sun - Tues: 8am - 5pm, Wed - Sat: 8am - late
Plus, all day through Carnival, enjoy house-roasted coffee and cake with Chantilly cream for $10.
p 07 4636 3177 e theangelcafe@gmail.com w www.theanglecafe.com.au
home made sweets
*Whole table must order set menu.
FIREFLY Firefly is the result of its owners’ passion for quality boutique coffee and fresh, unique, flavoursome food. Asher and Jess Andrews have created a welcoming and inspiring space where everyone can come and share in their excitement about food that is: • fresh and healthy • made from scratch • a daring combination of flavours; and
Location: 100 Russell St, Toowoomba Opening hours: 7 days for breakfast and lunch p 07 4564 9197 e admin@thefireflycafe.com.au w www.thefireflycafe.com.au
SPECIAL CARNIVAL
OFFERS
SPECIAL CARNIVAL OFFER Complimentary House-Made Starter
• so pleasing to the eye you’ll want to take a photo!
Enjoy a complimentary House-Made Starter when two Lunch Meals are ordered from the Spring Lunch Menu.
Firefly is a great spot to sample some of our wonderful regional produce.
Available only between 12pm & 2:30pm from 19-28 September.
a feast for the
palate
Tastes of the Region
39
a ban uet of
RENDEZVOUS CAFÉ Rendezvous Café on Ruthven Street brings a touch of Paris to the Toowoomba CBD. Offering Frenchinspired cuisine made from fresh, healthy, preservative-free ingredients which are all sourced locally, Rendezvous Café’s Frenchthemed decor and Parisiennes melodies will transport you from your everyday life.
frpersohduce
Rendezvous Café is proud to offer good old-fashioned service and warmly welcomes everyone to enjoy a little escape in the city centre. Take time out to enjoy an authentic High Tea experience, served on beautiful fine vintage china. Rendezvous Café caters for special dietary needs
LOCALLYSOURCED INGREDIENTS
authentic
yummy
food
Location: Australian Arcade, Ruthven St, Toowoomba CBD Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 4pm, Sat: 8:30am - 2pm p 07 4638 3411
SPECIAL CARNIVAL OFFER $14.95 French Crêpes A choice of delicious French Crêpes for just $14.95: • Chicken and Mushroom with Salad; or • Strawberry Cream with Warm Chocolate Sauce.
CITY GOLF CLUB Awarded Best Club, Venue & Facilities on the Darling Downs three years in a row, City Golf Club is renowned for its relaxing dining atmosphere, great value and excellent service. Selections Restaurant uses fresh, local produce to create delicious and quality dishes. Order from the enticing Selections menu and enjoy the accompanying all-you-can-eat salad bar. Café 19 offers an assortment of light meals, snacks and desserts, all served with postcard views out across the golf course greens. Reitano’s Bar offers a full range of wines, spirits and beers (including 15 on-tap varieties) and is the perfect spot to relax with your favourite drink. With free entertainment every Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons, City Golf Club is sure to please everyone.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
including gluten free, dairy free and paleo.
Location: 254 South Street, Toowoomba Opening hours: Open 7 days, 8:30am till late p 07 4636 9000 e admin@citygolfclub.com.au w www.citygolfclub.com.au
SPECIAL CARNIVAL OFFER $12.90 Spring Meals City Golf Club invites all residents and visitors to enjoy a Carnival treat at Selections Restaurant, with the following options: • Chicken, tomato and brie quiche with a fresh avocado salad topped with lemon dressing – $12.90. • House-made Pavlova with fresh fruit and Chantilly cream - $5.50.
TOURS & PACKAGES
tours & packages
Tours & Packages
41
garden tours HOP ON HOP OFF GARDEN SHUTTLE Duration - Up to you! What a fantastic way to get around and see a great selection of the prize-winning gardens! Forget about wasting time trying to find a car park at the city’s most popular showpiece gardens - leave your car at one of the designated parking stations and join our convenient shuttle service. With shuttles departing every 30 minutes, you have plenty of time to fully explore each garden at your leisure. If there’s one that really takes your fancy, then stay a little longer and catch the following shuttle to the next garden. DATES
Daily 19 – 23 September
TIME
Departures every 30 minutes 9am – 4pm
PRICE
Adult $40 Concession $40 Child gold coin donation
BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
explore r at youe leisur prizewinning
gardens
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
MORNING GARDENS GALORE TOUR Duration - 3 hours Delight in seeing prize-winning gardens in all their morning glory! This fully-guided tour takes in a selection of Toowoomba’s most beautiful private gardens. Be amazed by the talent and dedication of these proud gardeners as you wander through their magnificent garden creations and perhaps learn some of their personal gardening tips along the way! Note that the gardens showcased in this tour are different from those in the Afternoon Tour. Combine both tours and save 10% off the second tour. DATES
Daily 19 - 28 September
TIME
Departs 9am Returns 12pm
PRICE
Adult $45 Concession $40 Child $20
BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
AFTERNOON GARDENS LOVERS TOUR Duration - 3 hours Enjoy a relaxing afternoon strolling through a selection of the Carnival’s best prizewinning gardens during this fully-guided tour. The year-round labour of love by each of these proud Toowoomba gardeners is evident as you take time to appreciate all the intricate detail which has gone into the planning and planting stages. The results are simply stunning! Note that the gardens showcased in this tour are different from those in the Morning Tour. Combine both tours and save 10% off the second tour. DATES
Daily 19 - 28 September
TIME
Departs 1pm Returns 4pm
PRICE
Adult $45 Concession $40 Child $20
BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
GRAND PARADE & GARDEN TOUR Duration - 7 hours If you only have time to do one tour, then this is the one! There is a guided tour in the morning when you can wander through the Grand Champion and other prize-winning gardens, as well as through a selection of top exhibition gardens. After a relaxing picnic lunch in one of Toowoomba’s most picturesque parks, the kaleidoscope of colour continues in the afternoon as you enjoy an up-close view of the Grand Central Floral Parade from specially reserved seating. The 2014 theme for the parade is “Storybook of Colour” and with a spectacular line-up of fresh floral floats, street performers, carnival characters, stilt walkers, walking groups and live bands, it is an unforgettable spectacle for both young and old to enjoy. DATE
Saturday 20 September
TIME
Departs 10am Returns 5pm
PRICE
Adult $85 Concession $80 Child $60
INCLUDED
Picnic lunch
BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
Joining instructions: Tours depart from the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre, 86 James Street, Toowoomba, or Kearneys Spring Sporting Fields car park, Cnr Ruthven and Spring Streets, Toowoomba. Between 19 and 21 Sept the Morning & Afternoon Gardens tours will also depart from outside the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival. Note: There is a limit of 15 minutes for parking at the Visitor Information Centre car park.
Tours & Packages
43
food & wine tours TALKING PUBS TOUR Duration - 4 hours Foodies and old yarn lovers alike will delight in this guided tour of three of Toowoomba’s historical pubs. A casual progressive dinner journey, this fun and light-hearted tour will uncover some quirky Toowoomba pub tales. Sample some of the local ale and enjoy some great pub-grub while being entertained with fanciful yarns and fascinating architecture. It’s a truly memorable evening! DATES Wednesday 24 September; Friday 26 September; Saturday 27 September TIME
Departs 5:30pm Returns 9:30pm
PRICE
Adult $89 – This tour is restricted to 18+
INCLUDED Three-course progressive dinner + 1 beverage at each pub. Courtesy pick up/drop off to Toowoomba accommodation BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
regionnael wi tasting
PROGRESSIVE FOOD & WINE TOUR Duration - 4 hours
farm feasting
& fun
This regional gourmet journey starts with sunset canapés and a special regional wine tasting tutorial in the beautiful surrounds of Preston Peak Winery, situated on the edge of the Great Dividing Range escarpment. Continuing on to DownsSteam, a heritage railway building and museum, you will be treated to a fabulous main course on the station platform, served by Chef Glyn Hughes whose delicious creations have been enjoyed by HRH Queen Elizabeth II. The culinary experience is completed with a decadent dessert, dessert wine and tea and coffee at Picnic Point, a wonderful Toowoomba icon which has been delighting visitors and residents since the 1800s. DATES
Saturday 27 September
TIME
Departs 5:30pm Returns 9:30pm
PRICE
Adult $130 – This tour is not suitable for children
INCLUDED Three-course progressive dinner + 1 beverage at each venue. Courtesy pick up/drop off to Toowoomba accommodation BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
PADDOCK TO PLATE TOUR Duration - 5 hours A short coach ride to the picturesque hamlet of Hampton brings you to a day of farm-feasting and fun! Visit a lime farm and meet the grower then continue down the road to a 20-acre self-sustainable farm. Sample and perhaps purchase fresh local produce at an old-fashioned market stall and wander through the ornamental gardens. Join a tour of the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive fruit orchard and vegetable garden where you can also feed the farm animals. This farm is also home to the Queensland Automobile Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 120 vintage, veteran and classic cars. Enjoy a two-course lunch made from delicious local produce ingredients and listen to Farmer Kerry as she shares her farming and cooking secrets. Subject to availability, there may even be fruit ready for you to pick! DATE
Saturday 27 September
TIME
Departs 9am Returns 2pm
PRICE
Adult $97 Child $59
INCLUDED Product sampling, morning refreshments, two-course lunch including homemade punch or glass of wine BOOKINGS Book online at www.tcof.com.au or call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
find out more: tcof.com.. au
Tours & Packages
45
STEAM TRAIN TOUR Duration - Full Day
experience tours
Carnival of Flowers visitors coming from Brisbane will love the Australian Railway Historical Society’s return to yesteryear with two fabulous Steam Train Tours to Toowoomba on the first two days of the Carnival. Passengers will alight after their time-travelling journey to be met by a waiting coach in Toowoomba which will take you on a tour around some of the prize-winning gardens. A truly unique experience for the whole family! You may pre-book lunch at Artisan Pizza & Sandwich (additional $25.50). DATES
Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 September
TIME Saturday Departs Brisbane Roma Street Station at 6:45am Returns 6:45pm Sunday Departs Brisbane Roma Street Station at 7:20am Returns 7:35pm PRICE
Adult $119 Concession $105 Child $59 Family $299
BOOKINGS Call Australian Railway Historical Society on 07 3252 1759 between 10am and 3pm Tues-Thurs only.
SPRING BLUFF RAIL TOUR Duration - Varies SPECTACULAR
GARDENS, COUNTRY
TOURING
& LOCAL
FOOD AND WINE
All aboard! Enjoy a scenic railway journey to historic Spring Bluff Railway Station. Passenger trains travel to and from Spring Bluff twice daily during Carnival, so whether you go for a morning, an afternoon, or for the whole day, you are sure to enjoy this wonderful experience for young and old. Look forward to the tunnels along the route and the welcoming greeting from the “Acting” Station Master. The station’s prize-winning gardens are the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing BYO picnic, or to indulge in a freshly brewed coffee or tempting ice cream available for purchase from the station store. DATES
Twice daily 21 - 27 September
TIME
Ex Toowoomba 9am & 1pm Ex Spring Bluff 11am & 3pm
PRICE
Adult $20 Child $10
BOOKINGS
Qld Rail Travel 1300 732 087 or online www.qldrailtravel.com.au
SILVER BULLET EXPRESS TOUR Duration - Full Day
retuerstnertoyear y
Travel by specially chartered 2000 class railcar past farmlands and quaint Lockyer Valley townships and pause at the photo-worthy station of Spring Bluff with its beautiful gardens before continuing up the main range to Toowoomba. You may pre-book lunch at Artisan Pizza & Sandwich (additional cost $21) or take a short walk into Toowoomba’s main dining precinct just a few minutes away. After lunch, board a waiting coach for a prize-winning gardens tour, with time to wander through and admire all the spectacular garden creations. The coach then returns you to the Toowoomba station for your return journey to Brisbane. DATE
Wednesday 24 September
TIME Departs Brisbane Roma Street Station at 8:15am Returns 6:40pm PRICE
Adult $130 Concession $115 Child $65
BOOKINGS Call Sunshine Express Rail Tours on 07 3252 1759 between 10am and 3pm Tues-Thurs only
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
FOODIES DELIGHT PACKAGE Duration - 3 Days/2 Nights Indulge the senses with this 3 day/2-night package which includes quality 4-star accommodation, breakfast daily and a Progressive Food & Wine Tour on Saturday night featuring sunset canapés at Preston Peak Winery, a sumptuous main at DownsSteam Heritage Rail, and delectable dessert at Picnic Point (see full details in the Food & Wine Tours section). Friday afternoon why not head to Preston Peak Winery for their free Strange Birds Wine Tasting? In the evening, you might like to join the Talking Pubs Tour** for a fabulous night of fun and pub fare. On Saturday you have the option of booking the Paddock to Plate Tour** or you can take a drive around some of the amazing prize-winning gardens. DATES
Friday 26 September - Sunday 28 September
TIME
Check in from 2pm
PRICE
From $299pp* Twin Share
INCLUDED 2 nights accommodation at Burke & Wills Hotel, daily continental breakfast, Progressive Food & Wine Tour BOOKINGS
Call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
*Price per person based on 2 people sharing executive double room for 2 nights at the Burke and Wills Hotel. Other room categories available. Subject to availability. Cancellation conditions apply. **Ask about adding optional tours to your package - Talking Pubs Tour $89pp; Paddock to Plate Tour $97pp.
COLOURS OF SPRING TOUR Duration - 5 Days/4 Nights If this is the year for you to really take the time to enjoy all that Carnival has to offer, there is no easier way to do it than with the Colours of Spring Tour. Featuring guided tours of spectacular prize-winning and exhibition gardens, reserved seating at the Grand Central Floral Parade, twilight champagne garden walks, entry to the Ergon Energy Flower, Food & Wine Festival, and a great variety of other local attractions, this tour lets you see and enjoy it all! Departing from Brisbane you will have the benefit of touring the beautiful Garden City of Toowoomba during its spectacular Carnival of Flowers season with the help of a friendly and knowledgeable local. With themed dinners and other special touches, it’s a trip you’ll remember for a lifetime! View full itinerary at www.tcof.com.au DATE Saturday 20 September - Wednesday 24 September Departs from Brisbane Airport or Roma Street Station PRICE
Adult Twin Share $1,099* Adult Single Occupancy $1,698*
INCLUDED
All accommodation, guided tours, entry tickets and most meals
BOOKINGS
Call Stonestreets Coaches 07 4687 5555
*Prices are per person. Twin Share rate based on two people sharing a room. Subject to availability. Cancellation conditions apply. Refer to Stonestreets Coaches for full terms and conditions.
Tours & Packages
47
COMMUNITY FLORAL EVENTS
community f loral events
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
bringing ile
During the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, the city blooms with special events and exhibitions showcasing the most fabulous floral arrangements.
a somur to y e fac
IKEBANA EXHIBITION
spectacular
Saturday 20 September to Sunday 28 September, 10am - 4pm (10am - 1pm on Sundays) The Toowoomba Ikebana Group is proud to present an amazing exhibition of their stunningly beautiful floral arrangements which have been crafted in the Japanese art of flower arrangement known as Ikebana. Ikebana is now a recognised art form throughout the world, with modern Ikebana boldly experimental in its incorporation of woods, inorganic objects and dried plants together with living materials. In addition to more traditional arrangements, flowing sculptural formations capture the imagination while still retaining
Members of the Toowoomba Ikebana Group are from the Sogetsu School and have studied for many years to reach high levels of artistry. Make time to drop in to their gallery, conveniently located on the Parade route. Location: Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery, 531 Ruthven St, Toowoomba Enquiries: 07 4688 6652 e art@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au Entry: FREE
ST PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL FLORAL FESTIVAL Thursday 18 September to Wednesday 24 September, 9am - 4pm (10:30am - 4pm on Sunday) Prominent Toowoomba flower arranger and gardener Joan Falvey will be working her magic again with spectacular floral artistry adorning St Patrick’s Cathedral during Carnival. The 2014 theme for the St Patrick’s Cathedral Floral Festival is “Joy, Peace, Love”, with more than 30 large floral decorations all depicting this theme. Enjoy the
displays
the intrinsic artistry of Ikebana’s ancient heritage.
ambience as peaceful musical notes fill the Cathedral during your wander through. Guided tours available. Location: 123 Neil St, Toowoomba Enquiries: Joan Falvey 07 4630 2988 Entry: $2 per person
THE BEST
FLORAL SHOWS
IN QLD
indulge in colours textuanrdes Community Floral Events
49
a town celebration
BRINDABELLA RHODODENDRON & ROSE FESTIVAL Thursday 18 September to Sunday 28 September, 9am - 5pm (Last garden entry at 4:30pm)
idyllic surrounds
Attracting flower lovers for 22 years, the Brindabella Rhododendron & Rose Festival is Australia’s only rhododendron & rose festival showcasing over 400 rhododendrons in full flower and 2,500 divinely perfumed roses in one stunning country garden setting. Brindabella Country Gardens is set on four acres of English style gardens which have provided the backdrop
for many a wedding and special event. Allow time to include a visit to Brindabella during Carnival, and don’t forget to take a wander down the daffodil trail and the bluebell walk. Location: Cnr Quinlan Rd and New England Highway, Highfields Enquiries: 07 4696 8440 Entry: $4 per person
TOOWOOMBA ORCHID SOCIETY SPRING ORCHID SHOW Friday 19 September to Tuesday 23 September, 8:30am - 4pm (8:30am to 3pm on Tuesday) For the best spring display of orchids anywhere in Queensland and a great variety of orchid species which are rarely available elsewhere on sale, pay a visit to the Orchid Show at Centenary Heights High School. An absolute must for orchid lovers, with culture talks and potting demonstrations to help you with your
own cultivations. Locally prepared food items are also available. Location: Centenary Heights High School, Cnr Ramsay and South Sts, Toowoomba Enquiries: Murray Ferguson 07 4635 3629 or 0439 953 629 Entry: $3 per person
BROMELIAD SHOW Friday 19 September to Monday 22 September, 8:30am - 4pm (8:30am to 3pm on Monday)
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
Literally hundreds of bromeliads can be viewed at the Bromeliad Show with numerous species on display.
Location: St Paul’s Church Hall, Cnr
There are also plants available for purchase. Coaches and groups welcome.
07 4635 3629 or 0439 953 629
James and Phillip Sts, Toowoomba Enquiries: Murray Ferguson
Entry: $3 per person
allying
TOOWOOMBA CLIVIA SHOW
entertainment
Friday 19 September to Wednesday 24 September, 9am - 5pm Presented by the Toowoomba Clivia Society, the Toowoomba Clivia Show is the longest running clivia show in Australia. Clivia lovers come from all over Australia, and even from other parts of the world to see our spectacular Toowoomba clivias. With the perfect climate and conditions to create a magnificent display of these gorgeous blooms each September, Toowoomba’s clivias come out in all their glory for Carnival. Come along
and view (and if the urge strikes - buy) some of the best clivias in Australia.
&
culture
Location: Southern Queensland Institute of Tafe, 100 Bridge St, Toowoomba Enquiries: Kerry Robinson 0437 533 982 Entry: FREE (gold coin donation appreciated - 2014 proceeds donated to Cystic Fibrosis Queensland)
ST LUKE’S FLOWER & MUSIC FESTIVAL Friday 19 September to Wednesday 24 September, 9am - 4pm St Luke’s Anglican Church is once again putting on magnificent floral displays by the Toowoomba Floral Art Group, with music concerts daily at 12.30pm. Be sure to make time for a Carnival visit to St Luke’s and don’t forget to drop into the hall where there is a range of arts and craft items by local artisans for sale. St Luke’s beautiful gardens are a
great place to enjoy a relaxing drink or bite to eat amid the flurry of Carnival activities around the city. Tea, coffee and other refreshments are available for purchase. Location: Cnr Ruthven and Herries Sts, Toowoomba Enquiries: 07 4639 1910 Entry: Gold coin donation
#tcof2014
ST DAVID’S ON DISPLAY Saturday 27 September, 9am - 4pm St David’s Presbyterian Women’s Association is holding its annual carnival celebration with a great array of cake, plant and white elephant stalls set amidst the beautiful gardens of St David’s Church. Light refreshments are available for purchase and there will be a sausage sizzle from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Enjoy a wander through the
colourful gardens and pick up a treat to take home. Coaches and groups are also most welcome. Location: St David’s Presbyterian Church, 46 Mary St, Toowoomba Enquiries and bookings: 07 4638 0317 (Beverlei) or 07 4639 1882 (Peggy) Entry: FREE
Community Floral Events
51
OTHER THINGS TO SEE & DO
other things to see & do
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
#tcof2014
e eg t up calonsd admire
dream
While in Toowoomba, why not stay a bit longer to explore and enjoy all the wonders and entertainment the Garden City has to offer?
CLASSIC CARS Saturday 20 September, judging starts at 11am Car lovers from around the country are drawn to witness this compelling display of motoring history. With 12 trophies up for grabs, car enthusiasts compete in one of the region’s most popular “show & shines” for the coveted Carnival Classic Car Awards.
In addition to the classic specimens,
Anyone fascinated by the sight of these glistening beauties, as well as anyone intrigued by the vestiges of a bygone era, has the opportunity to get up close, admire and dream…
Location: Godsall St Oval,
there are some stunning examples of hot rods, street machines and motor bikes also on display. Competitors are judged from 11am with winners announced shortly after 2pm. Queens Park, Toowoomba Enquiries: Jeff Brown 07 4613 6706
FREE DELIGHTFUL ENTERTAINMENT
Entry: FREE
DIESEL TRAIN RIDES TO SPRING BLUFF Sunday 21 September to Saturday 27 September A must-do Toowoomba experience, Diesel Train Rides to Spring Bluff have delighted generations of locals for many years. During Carnival, every one is going “Choo Choo” with twice daily passenger trains leaving Toowoomba for the beautifully scenic journey down to the glorious prizewinning gardens of Spring Bluff. A fun ride for young and old, there are tunnels to enjoy along the route and a warm welcome by the “Acting” Station Master upon arrival as guests are greeted with song and dance.
Pack a picnic, enjoy a freshly brewed espresso coffee, or treat the kids (and yourself) to an ice-cream as you ponder a bygone era in simply stunning surrounds.
toowoomba
mustdos
Departs from: Toowoomba Railway Station Enquiries and bookings: 07 4631 3381 (Queensland Rail Ticket Office) Tickets: Adults $20, Children (4-15yrs) $10, children under 4 not occupying a seat*: FREE. *Limit of one free child ticket per paying adult.
Other Things to See & Do
53
BIG BAND AT THE BLUFF
The J im Miller Big Band
Sunday 21 September, 12pm - 3:30pm The first Sunday of Carnival sees Spring Bluff host its now famous BIG BAND AT THE BLUFF day with the Jim Miller Big Band, when picnic-makers and BBQ-lovers all descend on the beautiful Spring Bluff Station gardens. This has become an extremely popular day during Carnival week with over 3,000 visitors on the day. If you miss out on a train ticket, you can join a bus tour or
drive directly to Spring Bluff. Come prepared with your own fully stocked picnic basket or sip on a freshly brewed espresso coffee and enjoy other delicious treats for sale at the station as you soak up the magnificent views and live music. Enquiries: Claire McGovern 07 4688 6883 Entry: FREE
CITY GOLF CLUB - EXECUTIVE CHEF COOKING DEMONSTRATION Wednesday 24 September, 10:30am
good es tim
cooking
demo
As an exciting Carnival experience, Executive Chef at City Golf Club Ryan McBurney is holding a special demonstration where he will show you his secrets to preparing a selection of delectable dishes using fresh, locally grown produce. As the master creates, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and of course, taste the dishes. Full recipes
will be provided so you can impress your family and friends by cooking these wonderful dishes at home. Places are limited, so register early to avoid disappointment. Location: 254 South St, Toowoomba Enquiries and registrations: 07 4636 9000 Entry: FREE
QUILT JOURNEYS - REVISITING OUR STORIES Friday 26 September to Sunday 28 September, 9:30am - 5pm
BOOK ONLINE tcof.com.au
Stunning detail and intricate design by local quilters, including Robyn Ginn and Kerrie Klan, are showcased by Quilt Journeys. This exhibition has been specially curated for Carnival and the majority of quilts have been crafted to tell a story which incorporates flowers and floral themes. Much like floral designers, quilters take individual items (in their case, fabrics) and craft them together to create unique and lasting arrangements. With a number of prize-winning quilts on display, quilters and quilt-lovers alike will delight in the symbolism of these gorgeous quilts as a commemoration of new beginnings.
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
There are over 50 quilts included in the exhibition, with some quilts and handcrafts available for purchase. Come and relax with a cuppa on the wide open verandahs at Fairholme Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic homestead while finding out a little more about these beautiful artworks. Location: The Homestead, Fairholme College, entry via Fairholme St, Toowoomba. Wheelchair access available. Enquiries: 0400 719 640 e lynne.and4@gmail.com Entry: $5 per person
STRANGE BIRDS WINE TASTING, PRESTON PEAK WINERY Friday 26 September, 11am and 3pm Preston Peak Winery is just a short ten-minute drive south of Toowoomba and yet once there, you feel like you should have had to drive much farther to reach such a beautiful rural haven. Perched on the edge of the range escarpment, the winery offers spectacular views over vineyards, the Lockyer Valley and Table Top Mountain, and is the perfect spot for a relaxing morning or afternoon. To celebrate Carnival this year, Preston Peak Winery is pleased to
present two tasting and information sessions where visitors can learn about Granite Belt Strange Birds and their rare and unusual wine varieties including Mataro, Carménère and Gewürtztraminer. Come along, meet the team behind the wines, and try something new!
granite
Be lt wine degustation
Location: 430 Preston Boundary Road, Preston Enquiries and bookings: 07 4630 9499 Entry: FREE
A BLOOMIN’ SCARY NIGHT AT THE INN
BOOK
Saturday 27 September, 7pm, 7:45pm and 8:30pm A National Trust building, Drayton’s Royal Bull’s Head Inn is a rare example of a pre-Separation Queensland Inn. Built in 1859, this historic building served as a resting place for travellers between Moreton Bay and the Darling Downs and continues to delight visitors today. Carnival of Flowers visitors have the opportunity to experience the Royal Bull’s Head in a way that combines a floral theme with a bit of “scary” fun. Drawing on the Bloomin’ Scary Night theme, the Inn, the garden and our resident ghosts (aka our historic clothes models) will be decorated in a ghostly white floral theme, all strategically placed for maximum fright value of course! Residents of the region, especially those who may have heard local author Don Talbot’s Ghostly Tales about the Royal Bull’s Head
ONLINE
and stories of real-life ghostly encounters, will also relish the chance to experience the atmosphere of the 155-year old Inn at night time during one of three 45-minute tours. Visitors are asked to bring their own lanterns/torches, as it can be quite dark navigating the Inn at night. Ensure to arrive 10 minutes prior to tour time. Be aware that stairs to the first floor are quite steep and unfortunately there is no wheelchair access.
tcof.com.au
EAT.
LAUGH.
PLAY. STAY.
Location: Royal Bull’s Head Inn, 59 Brisbane St, Drayton Bookings: http://www.trybooking. com/ESZL Enquiries: Debby 0402 138 751 e rbhi@icr.com.au Tickets: Adult $10, Child $7.50, Concession $7.50, Family (Children 13 and under) $25
experience
& relish
#tcof2014
Other Things to See & Do
55
GREAT AUSSIE GOURMET BBQ - JONDARYAN WOOLSHED Sunday 28 September, open from 9am - 4.30pm Enjoy a leisurely 30-minute drive to the famous Jondaryan Woolshed for the Great Aussie Gourmet BBQ. With great food, cooked perfectly every time by the Woolshed’s talented chef, the Great Aussie Gourmet BBQ includes a fabulous selection of seafoods and meats, assorted salads and damper rolls. A range of beverages is available for purchase from the Woolshed’s fully licensed dining areas.
fresh,
local
gourmet
food
The Jondaryan Woolshed and its museum village are steeped in Australian history and the heritagelisted woolshed building is the oldest and largest operating woolshed in
BOOK ONLINE tcof.com.au
countryge herita
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
the world! The whole family will love all the great woolshed activities which form part of this authentically Aussie experience, including the sheep shearing demonstrations, horse and cart rides, animal nursery, mini steam train rides and so much more. Location: 264 Jondaryan-Evanslea Road, Jondaryan Enquiries and Bookings: 07 4692 2229 or book online: www.jondaryanwoolshed.com.au Entry: Adult $25, Child $10 (price includes entry and meal)
APTHORPE FARM MARKET PLACE Every day except Monday Apthorpe Farm Market Place is the perfect location to find seasonal produce from local growers as well as fabulous local gourmet treats including Apthorpe Farm relishes, Hampton Blue jams, Bunnyconnellen Olive Grove & Vineyard products and Mother Meg’s famous biscuits. Quality local meats, fresh breads, gluten-free and preservative-free foods are available. Apthorpe is a picturesque spot to enjoy a light morning or afternoon tea including home-baked cakes and biscuits. A book exchange* will while away the hours and Thai massage is available for those wanting to soothe
tired carnival-garden traipsing feet! Come and enjoy a chat with the owner, a local relish-making farmer, and browse through the collection of artworks*, all by local artists. *Proceeds of book exchange and painting sales are donated to Heartkids Queensland.
Location: 10511 New England Highway, Highfields Open: Tues - Sat Enquiries: Leonie 07 4697 9392 e leonie@apthorpefarm.com.au w www.apthorpefarm.com.au Entry: FREE
COBB & CO MUSEUM Open every day, 10am - 4pm Just a short walk across from Queens Park sits the Cobb & Co Museum. Housing a variety of interactive displays and hands-on activities, you are sure to find something that tickles your fancy at Cobb & Co Museum. In addition to the National Carriage Collection which attracts visitors from far and wide all year round, and the coffee shop serving delicious handmade treats, there is a
host of other attractions at Cobb & Co to coincide with Carnival time. Location: 27 Lindsay St, Toowoomba Open: 7 days 10am - 4pm Enquiries: 07 4659 4900 w www.cobbandco.qm.qld.gov.au Entry: Adults $12.50, Concessions $10, Children $6.50, Family tickets available
WHODUNIT? HOLIDAY PROGRAM 19 September to 6 October
BOOK
Kids, come and use your powers of deduction to find the clues and solve the mystery! Suitable for ages 3-12. Cost: $5
ONLINE tcof.com.au
THE BEATLES EXHIBITION 13 June to 12 October “Welcome to Australia. Which one am I talking to?” Celebrating 50 years since The Beatles Australian tour.
RED DIRT AND GRASS STAINS From 23 May A new exhibition celebrating the inspirational sportsmen and women from Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
EMPIRE THEATRE Toowoomba’s magnificent historical theatre, the Empire Theatre on Neil Street has come a long way from its beginnings as a silent movie theatre in 1911. Now the largest regional theatre in Australia and an architectural masterpiece, the Empire Theatre plays host to some
of the most acclaimed performers to tour our region. Location: 56 Neil St, Toowoomba Bookings: phone the box office on 1300 655 299 or book online at www.empiretheatre.com.au e empire@empiretheatre.com.au
GRACE BARBÉ Wednesday 10 September, 7:30pm Seychelles islander Grace Barbé’s soulful music reflects and celebrates the diverse cultural influences of her Indian Ocean heritage. A colourful and energetic fusion of tropical island rhythms with African percussion, reggae, pop, rock and latin flavours, Grace’s “Afro-Kreol” sound is original, fresh and funky. Grace’s voice is a
remarkably powerful instrument and as a songwriter she has a rare and natural gift for rhythm and melody. Playing guitar and bass, Grace performs in English, Kreol and French to an audience who quite simply cannot resist the urge to dance!
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Tickets: Adult $36, Concession $30, Youth <18yrs $18, Youth <25yrs $25
QUEENSLAND BALLET’S CINDERELLA Saturday 13 September, 1:30pm & 7:30pm With a royal palace, glittering gown, a handsome Prince and a fairy godmother, Cinderella’s life of hardship is transformed. Making a dazzling entrance to the royal ball, she captures the attention of all and the heart of the Prince. Yet this beautiful dream must end at midnight, and in her haste to depart, she leaves one jewelled slipper behind…
Queensland Ballet’s new production of Ben Stevenson’s Cinderella is charming, humorous and blissfully romantic. Embrace the magic, and believe that dreams really do come true! Tickets: Adult $64, Concession $59, Youth <18yrs $35, Youth <25yrs $45
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EMPIRE THEATRE LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION Saturday 20 September, 8pm An intoxicating performance by John Waters as John Lennon, Looking through a Glass Onion is an experience you will never forget. Whether it means an emotional trip down memory lane, or is a wonderful introduction to the life and times of one of the most fascinating music icons of our time, you are
certain to be touched by Waters’ outstanding renditions. With 31 songs performed including A Day In The Life, Strawberry Fields Forever, Revolution, Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds, Woman, Jealous Guy, Imagine and more, this is a show for all ages. Tickets: Adult $55, Concession $50
THE BEGGARS SING! Wednesday 24 September, 7:30pm
The Beggars Sing! pays homage to the great vocal groups, Peter Paul and Mary, The Mamas and the Papas and The Seekers. The Beggars are Renee Donaghey, Stuart Day and Quinton Dunne. With a distinctly Australian acoustic sound which is often compared to legendary Australian vocal group The Seekers, they have risen to
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Now making frequent appearances on the stages of Europe and at Australia’s festivals and theatres, The Beggars are gaining a loyal following. Take this opportunity to see them live at the Empire. You won’t regret it! Tickets: Adult $32, Concession $30
OH WHAT A NIGHT! TRIUMPHANT RETURN TOUR 2014 Thursday 25 September, 8pm
Oh What a Night! is everything its name suggests. Prepare for an incredible evening of entertainment as the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons is brought to you in a fully choreographed production by artists who look and sound just like the originals. Relive hit tunes like Walk Like a Man, Oh What a Night, Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, My Eyes Adored
Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2014 tcof.com.au
the top of the European country music charts.
You, Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Grease, and so many others during this action-packed spectacle. It’s a performance not to be missed! Tickets: Adult $69.50, Concession $64.50, Child $64.50
TOOWOOMBA CBD MAP
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thinking of coming back next year? If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re keen for another 10 days filled with smiles, the 2015 Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers can make it happen! With more prize-winning gardens, stunning floral artistry, internationally acclaimed music acts, interactive demonstrations by gardening and culinary experts, new and exciting kids activities, tantalising tastes and wines of the region, and another spectacular Floral Parade through the city centre next year, why not grab some friends and have fun exploring everything that is Carnival 2015 together? There are accommodation options to suit every style and budget, so, come on, LOCK IT IN!
18-27 SEPTEMBER
2015
save the date!
SAVE THE DATE...
Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability of the information provided in this publication. Toowoomba Regional Council accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the information presented.
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Mark down Friday 18 - Sunday 27 September in your 2015 diary and go online or talk to your travel agent to BOOK EARLY for another unforgettable Spring Break in beautiful Toowoomba.