10 things to do
THE Darling Downs is full of fun and exciting things this weekend for the whole family.
From celebrations of happiness and diversity, to a popular town show now in its 115th year, there are plenty of things to do across the region.
1. Heavy Horse Festival
Clydesdales, Shire Horses, Percherons, Australian Draught, Gypsy Cob, Drum Horses and more will be on show at this year’s Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival.
Hoping to raise thousands for chosen charity LifeFlight, the annual festival will run over Saturday and Sunday, with gates open from 8am.
Ploughing, working horses and more will be on display, while local artisans, market stalls, food vendors, a licensed bar and live music will entertain guests.
Some vendors may not have EFTPOS, and with no ATM on site, guests are recommended to bring cash.
Tickets to the festival, held at the Allora Showgrounds, can be purchased online or at the gate.
2. Holi Dhuleti celebration
Residents are encouraged to spread the message of happiness, diversity, unity and peace at the 2023 festival of colours.
The Holi Dhuleti Celebration will take place on Saturday from 10.30am at Lake Annand Park near the gazebo area.
An Indian pot luck lunch will be on offer, with people encouraged to bring something to share.
The event has free entry for guests to celebrate Indian culture, diversity and unity.
3. Sustainability Showcase
The region’s best sustainable living experts will share their knowledge and tips with the district this weekend at a special event.
The Sustainability Showcase, at the Amaroo Environmental Education Centre near Highfields, aims to show people the benefits of sustainable design and living.
The event will run this Saturday from 10am to 2pm, with entry $5 per adult and light refreshments and barista coffee available for purchase.
Bookings are essential and can be made through the event’s EventBrite page.
4. Rugby league
Looking for a family-friendly event? Why not head along to the Western Clydesdales vs Tweed Seagulls match.
After 17 years, the Clydesdales are back in the Hostplus Cup, with Saturday's games kicking off from 12.35pm.
Held at Clive Berghofer Stadium, all five teams will play, with Saturday being the last home games for the 16s, 18s and 19s for the season.
Gates open at 10.30am, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
5. Comedy showcase
Down to Clown Comedy are bringing a special show to Mouse Proof Brewery for their new Comedy Sunday Sessions.
Featuring the best acts from Toowoomba, Brisbane and all across Australia, this free event also offers an Open Mic session for local comedians.
This Sunday, Nick Carr, Emma Zammit, Sandeep Totlani, Finbar Martinez, Sammy Al Badri and more will take to the stage from 6pm.
Those wishing to sign up for an Open Mic session can message Down the Clown Comedy on Facebook.
6. Women’s health meet
International organisation QENDO is aimed at supporting, educating and spreading awareness for anyone affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS and infertility.
This Saturday, from 11.30am to 1.30pm, Darling Downs representative Ash Webb will hold a special lunch at Urban Grounds for those struggling to come together.
Orchestrating a safe space for those affected by the issues, the lunch aims to connect with others living with the chronic conditions, to learn about treatments and management strategies, and to find emotional support among people who truly understand what it can be like.
For those interest in attending, you can register at the QENDO events website.
7. The Boy From Oz
Australian icon Peter Allen will be brought back to life this Saturday night and Sunday afternoon with the Toowoomba production of The Boy From Oz.
Starring Justin Tamblyn as the flamboyant Aussie legend, The Boy From OZ tells his touching story, starting in his hometown of Tenterfield.
Featuring fresh and seasoned performers, this production is sure to have you reaching for the tissues, especially when I Still Call Australia Home plays.
Tickets can be purchased at the Empire Theatre website, with the production running at 7.30pm Saturday night, 2pm Sunday afternoon, and the following weekend.
Grab your tickets today and get ready to Go To Rio!
8. Heritage home tour
Toowoomba Trails are set to take guests along the Mort Estate, walking through history to unearth the tale of Toowoomba.
Starting at the home of the King of Toowoomba, guests will explore the city’s oldest subdivision and hear a mix of stories about the buildings and who lives in them.
Running from 9.30am to 11.30am on Sunday, tickets start at $38 for concession and $45 per adult.
Tickets can be purchased through the Toowoomba Trails Facebook page.
9. Venue open day
Have you got engaged recently? Looking for that perfect venue?
Why not take advantage of Aberfeldy Barn’s annual wedding and event open day this Sunday.
The Westbrook location will be open from 3pm to 8pm for couples to witness the true beauty of the area at a similar time to ceremony’s and receptions.
At just $2 a ticket, couples can explore the site and speak with local vendors in the wedding and event industry.
Grab a bite to eat from a range of caterers on site, with market stalls also on offer to shop or organise gifts.
Visit the Aberfeldy Barn Facebook or website for ticket information, with the chance to even win a free honeymoon or holiday.
10. Oakey Show
Open from 8am on Saturday, the Oakey Show is back.
The Oakey Agricultural Pastoral and Rodeo Society will host the 115th Oakey Show this weekend with special performances by the Voll Sisters, Helly Hoops and the Oakey Academy of Dance.
Filled with the traditional program of beef, goats, poultry and dog judgings with a horse ring program and country competitions, the Oakey Show is sure to bring in a crowd.
Aussie FMX will entertain the crowd, with sideshow alley open for the whole family and delicious food on offer.
Fireworks will kick off from 7pm, and tickets are $15 per adult, $30 for a family, high school students and aged pensioners $5, and primary school students $3.
More information can be found on the Oakey Show website or Facebook page.