Gardens to grow region’s tourism market

SHANE Webcke doesn’t mince his words when talking about the Quarry Gardens project.

“In this setting we could build a garden that would be the best in the world and become an international destination,” he said.

“Not only would it bring extra wealth and enhance Toowoomba, it would define it.”

The rugby league legend likened the project to the famed Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island and issued a call to arms for support.

“A few years ago, the local council had a master plan drawn up to show how this site could be converted into an international standard parkland garden.

“We’ve got to get this going again.”

Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce CEO Jo Sheppard described the project as one which would give the city and region a competitive foothold in the global tourism market.

She said the Quarry Gardens could be the “hero attraction” needed to secure a share in the international tourism market.

“I don’t think it’s a pipe dream at all,” she said.

A report this week predicted China would overtake New Zealand as Australia’s biggest source of international visitors which Ms Sheppard said held potential for Toowoomba.

“The opportunity is real but we just need some caution when we are competing in a global market place,” she said.

“Toowoomba and the region has some marketing work to do. We’ve got natural assets and a lot of the things that overseas visitors are looking for.”