Carnival’s $26m boost
70th festival great for business, community groups and morale
THE Carnival of Flowers is expected to bring more than $26 million to the region while boosting morale at a critical time.
Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce president Joy Mingay said businesses needed some “good news” as many suffered from the flow-on effects of the drought.
“Given what a tough year we have had with the weather and the uncertainty around New Acland, it’s such a boost for the business community, not just from an economic view but also morale,” Mrs Mingay said.
“To have some good news stories, to have people speaking positively about the regions, coming into town to spend their money - all community groups benefit.
“Accommodation providers are full. It’s lovely to see the no vacancy signs out around town.”
Mrs Mingay said she was confident the event would exceed the $26 million raised last year.
“$26 million - that’s not to be sneezed at. How many other events bring us such return, in visibility and in hard cash in people’s pockets?
“We do believe the calibre of the carnival and the 70th year will give us that extra push.”
Quest Apartments Toowoomba manager Cynthia Rice said the hotel was fully booked for tonight.
“We all sell out over this weekend; it brings many people to town,” Ms Rice said.
“It’s hugely beneficial to all of us who run a business. We ran a package this year and it sold out fairly quickly.”
Toowoomba Regional Council environment and community committee chair Councillor Geoff McDonald said an increase in bus tour bookings could be used as a barometer for the event’s success.
“Cobb and Co Museum normally have 17 coaches that book in for tours, this year they have 40 - and that’s only one place,” Cr McDonald said.
“Last year we had 170 coaches come to Toowoomba (for the event). That number had already been broken in February.”
Alongside the coach tours, he said there were about 80 floats in this year’s Grand Central Floral Parade. You can catch them at the corner of Herries and Hume Sts at 3pm today.