QUEENSLAND

Agnes Blues, Roots and Rock Festival, Feb 17-19

With the enviable backdrop of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, this three-day event held in the town of 1770/Agnes Water, 120 kilometres north of Bundaberg, presents a lively line-up of rock, blues and roots music. This year, Queensland duo Busby Marou are the headline act. More than 40 bands and performers will appear across two stages, including: Irish-born artist Joe Man Murphy; Aussie actor and entertainer Frankie J Holden; singer-songwriter Maynard Heap; folk singer Kate Mahood, and many more. Attendees can also join performer-led workshops, such as Songwriting with Linc Phelps; or Harmonica with Devil’s Kiosk. Book festival tickets and workshops online. agnesbluesandroots.com.au

Stanthorpe Show, Feb 3-5

Celebrating 147 years in 2023, the Stanthorpe Show will deliver a program of entertainment, education and fun at the town showgrounds. For children, there’s plenty to see and squeal about: racing pigs from Noah’s Farm; a reptile show; laughs with puppeteer Professor Wallace; and magic acts by Jason Gray. Visitors will enjoy the spectacle of whip-cracking and the delightful animal nursery, along with sideshow alley’s many rides and games. For added excitement, don’t miss the Aussie FMX stunt motorcycles, ute show, sheepdog trials, and fashion parades. Catch performances by a variety of musicians and bands: Restless Music duo Penny Davies and Roger Ilott; The Cole Train; and Sarah and David Hume. After dark, it’s time for the main event: the fireworks display. stanthorpeshowgrounds.com.au

Chinchilla Melon Festival, Feb 16-19

Known as the Melon Capital of Australia, Chinchilla is located in the Western Downs, about three hours’ drive north-west of Brisbane. Every two years, the town hosts its muchloved Melon Festival, inviting locals and visitors to sink their hands and teeth into all things fruity and delicious. There’s a range of messy activities to try, from watermelon skiing and melon bungee to a melon bash cricket match and melon rodeo. Other fun activities include farm tours, a street parade, beach party and golf day. Join the fun for a memorable weekend of melon mayhem – and wear old clothes! View the program at: melonfestival.com.au