Home Blog Page 2

A Historic Moment As Australia’s Cardinal Set To Visit In 2026

Newshound
-
0
A Historic Moment As Australia’s Cardinal Set To Visit In 2026

The Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba will welcome His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok CSsR, Australia’s Cardinal and Bishop for Ukrainian Catholics in Australia and New Zealand, for his first ever visit to Toowoomba this March.

To mark this significant occasion, the Diocese will host two exclusive events featuring a live interview with Cardinal Bychok conducted by Mr Michael Crutcher, respected journalist and former editor of “The Courier-Mail”.

*Dinner with the Cardinal
Thursday 26 March 2026 | 5:00pm – 10:00pm
Cathedral Function Centre, 123 Neil St, Toowoomba
Tickets: $195 (three-course meal, beverage package)

* Breakfast with the Cardinal
Friday 27 March 2026 | 7:30am – 10:00am
Cathedral Function Centre, 123 Neil St, Toowoomba
Tickets: $45 (plated breakfast)

His Eminence Mykola Cardinal Bychok CSsR

“I look forward to visiting Toowoomba, meeting the people of the Diocese, and learning about the restoration of St Patrick’s Cathedral. I’m eager to share my journey from Ukraine to Australia, reflect on the Church’s resilience, and explore how sacred spaces and art renew faith across generations,” said Cardinal Bychok of the upcoming visit.

“For our Catholic community, welcoming His Eminence is a significant occasion.” Said Bishop Ken Howell, Bishop of the Toowoomba Diocese. “I also hope people from across the region will join us, these events are an opportunity to hear a remarkable personal story and support the preservation of a cathedral that is part of our shared heritage.” Funds raised will support the restoration of St Patrick’s Cathedral’s historic leadlight windows. The windows are a $2.5 million project forming part of a larger historic restoration of St Patrick’s in time for the Diocese’s centenary celebrations in 2029.

Tickets are available now: www.twb.catholic.org.au/cathedral
Join us for these unforgettable events while helping to ensure St Patrick’s Cathedral continues to inspire faith and preserve a historic building for generations to come.

Submitted by:
Ingrid McTaggart, Communications Officer
Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba
Ph: 07 4632 7993
Email: imctaggart@twb.catholic.org.au

Toowoomba’s Blooming Talent Celebrated

Newshound
-
0
Toowoomba’s Blooming Talent Celebrated

Winners of The Chronicle Garden Competition 2025 were announced at the official awards presentation on 18 September 2025 • This  iconic event continues to showcase Toowoomba’s passion and talent for gardening as part of the Carnival of Flowers.

Toowoomba’s best gardeners have been recognised at The Chronicle Garden Competition Awards Presentation, celebrating the creativity, dedication, and community pride that has been at the heart of this event since 1949.

The competition, a highlight of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, continues to inspire both seasoned and first-time gardeners who transform homes, schools, businesses, and community spaces into breathtaking floral displays.

2025 Grand Champions include:(Photo by @vonhofftrc) Toowoomba Deputy Mayor Rebecca Vonhoff with Val and Bob Ford
• City Grand Champion: Val & Bob Ford, 19 Burke Street, Rangeville – Opening times: 10-day period from the 19th of September to 28th of September, 9 am to 5 pm.•

City Reserve Grand Champion: Cheryl Ganzer, 21 Talinga Street, Mt Lofty, 4 Cashmore Street, Wyreema – Opening times: 10-day period from the 19th of September to 28th of September, 9 am to 5 pm.

• Regional Grand Champion: Narelle Hurse – Opening times: Weekends only from the 19th of September to the 21st of September, and 26th of September to the 28th of September, 9 am to 5 pm.

• Regional Reserve Grand Champion: John & Lenore Ferris, 3 Perseverance Dam Road, Crow’s Nest – Opening times: 10-day period from the 19th of September to 28th of September, 9 am to 5 pm.

A full list of winners is  published in The Chronicle on Saturday 20 September and available in the official guide distributed at the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre and the Carnival Info Hubs located at Laurel Bank Park and Queens Park Botanic Gardens during the open garden period.

Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO and event MC, Jude Wills, said this year’s winners embody the legacy and spirit of the competition. “Toowoomba has always been known as the Garden City, and today’s winners show us exactly why. Each garden reflects not just beauty, but passion, dedication, and a sense of community pride. Our gardeners have created living works of art for all of us to enjoy, and we congratulate every entrant who helped make this year’s competition so vibrant.”

Since its beginnings in 1949, The Chronicle Garden Competition has grown into one of Australia’s most iconic community gardening competitions, playing a pivotal role in the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers celebrations and cementing the city’s reputation as Australia’s Garden City.

Submitted By:
Melinda Bond
​​​​BRAND & PERFORMANCE OFFICER
07 4616 6166
melinda@toowoombahospitalfoundation.org.au
Toowoomba Hospital Campus, Pechey St
toowoombahospitalfoundation.org.au

Region Missing Out On Battery Rebate Benefits

Newshound
-
0
Region Missing Out On Battery Rebate Benefits

With Regional Queenslanders calling for Home Battery to Grid Export Access, the Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) says Toowoomba is failing to make the most of its solar advantage, with new data revealing the region is lagging behind other parts of Queensland in taking up the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

Despite Toowoomba ranking in the state’s top four postcodes for rooftop solar capacity, it is absent from the list of Queensland’s top ten battery rebate postcodes detailed in a recent report released by Queensland Conservation Council. By contrast, suburbs like Beenleigh, Caloundra, Helensvale, and Coomera surged ahead in July, with more than 1,700 households across the state installing batteries in the program’s first month.

DDEC Coordinator Ahri Tallon said this gap highlights the need for stronger policy support to unlock Toowoomba’s clean energy potential: “Toowoomba is one of Queensland’s solar powerhouses, but households here aren’t seeing the full benefits because battery uptake remains so low. With the federal rebate now available, our region should be leading the charge – instead we’re falling behind.”

Battery storage allows households and businesses to store cheap solar power during the day and use it at night, cutting bills and reducing pressure on the grid. When linked together in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), batteries can provide even greater benefits, acting like a community power station.

“We are thankful that Energy Minister and Treasurer David Janetzki recently announced a new battery project in Towooomba but right now, Ergon customers in regional Queensland with a battery can’t export their battery power to grid. This is disincentivising community uptake of the Federal battery rebate meaning that regional Queenslanders pay more for power,” Mr Tallon said. “We’re locked out of the extra savings and security that communities elsewhere are starting to enjoy. We’re calling on the Queensland Government to make fair and equitable battery to grid export available in regional areas as part of its upcoming 5-year Energy Roadmap.”

DDEC says creating opportunities for households and businesses to participate in VPPs would:
Lower power bills for families already under cost-of-living pressure;
Improve reliability and resilience of the grid, especially during heatwaves and storms;
Reward regional communities for their leadership in renewable energy.

“Queensland’s energy future cannot rely on major energy projects, it needs to also be powered by the choices households and businesses make every day. We need to prioritise producing and storing as much electricity as possible within the urban extent to make our energy system more affordable and more resilient while reducing the pressure on rural areas where major projects are located” Mr Tallon said. “Toowoomba has the solar. Now we need the storage with home battery to grid export access, and the policies to back it in.”

Ref: Find out more about the report here

Submitted By:
Ahri Tallon
Coordinator
Darling Downs Environment Council
info@ddec.org.au

Community Protest to Protect Toowoomba’s Trees, Wildlife and Heritage

Newshound
-
0
Community Protest to Protect Toowoomba’s Trees, Wildlife and Heritage

Highfields, QLD – The Protect Trees Toowoomba campaign, supported by the Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC), is calling on residents across the region to join a peaceful community protest on Tuesday, September 9th at 1:00 PM at the corner of Barracks and Kuhls Road, Highfields.

The protest comes in response to the clearing of more than 200 trees many of which were old growth for a housing development by Clive Berghofer, wiping out critical koala and wildlife habitat. Despite the developer proposing a bushland park to retain some ecological value, Toowoomba Regional Council rejected the proposal, leaving no protections in place.

“A proposal was put to the developer to only develop the already cleared ex-farmland and leave the mature trees as a bushland reserve under a covenant with the state government. The developer rejected this idea and chose to bulldoze all the mature trees and habitat” said Ahri Tallon.

“Highfields is losing irreplaceable habitat, yet we still don’t have any meaningful tree protection policies for the Toowoomba Region,” said Ahri Tallon, Coordinator of DDEC. “Residents are rightly outraged. We need urgent reforms that allow the community to ensure development decisions safeguard wildlife and habitat corridors.”

The protest will feature environmental advocate Scott McPhie and local residents speaking about the ecological and cultural importance of mature trees in the Highfields landscape.

This action highlights community demand for:
A Tree Protection Policy for the Toowoomba Region
Development controls that safeguard habitat corridors and wildlife

Community members are encouraged to bring signs, and stand together for a greener, more liveable future.

Submitted By:
Ahri Tallon
Coordinator, Darling Downs Environment Council
 info@ddec.org.au or on 0455 619 454

DownsSteam On Track For The Future – In Touch With The Past

Newshound
-
0
DownsSteam On Track For The Future – In Touch With The Past

Step back in time with DownsSteam Toowoomba! Our heritage steam trains and rail motors mainly run selected Saturdays or Sundays (plus weekdays during the Carnival of Flowers – refer Schedules) in September and November — steam whistles, vintage carriages, and stunning Darling Downs scenery. Bring the family, bring your camera, and make memories that echo the golden age of rail.  Check departure times from Drayton Station carefully and book early for popular tours. We look forward to seeing you at DownsSteam Toowoomba.

https://heyzine.com/flip-book/b87fc94962.html

Drayton Station Office
Administration
DownsSteam Toowoomba
The home of Great Divide Scenic Railway
Darling Downs Historical Rail Society Ltd>
Office Hours:  9:00am – 3:00pm
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Ph: 07 46302358
E: office@downssteam.com
W: www.downssteam.com
16 Cambooya Street, Drayton Qld
PO Box 11106, Centenary Heights,
Qld 4350

Celebrating Our Local Environmental Champions

Newshound
-
0
Celebrating Our Local Environmental Champions

DDEC Announces 2025 AGM Award Winners

The Darling Downs Environment Council (DDEC) is proud to announce the winners of our 2025 Annual Awards, formally recognised at our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 27 August.

This year’s recipients embody the spirit of grassroots action, resilience, and care for the land, water, and wildlife of the Darling Downs. DDEC Coordinator, Ahri Tallon, said the awards are a way to honour those who have gone above and beyond in protecting and restoring our local environment.

“These award winners have shown that change is made by people who care enough to act — whether that’s rescuing a single injured koala, planting thousands of trees, or fighting for our precious farmland in the courts,” Mr Tallon said. “They are an inspiration not just to our region, but to Queensland and Australia as a whole.”
The Koala Whisperer – Mrs Sandra McKay:  Individual Annual Achievement Award
From the quiet streets of Crows Nest, Sandra “Sandie” McKay has become a tireless protector of our local koalas. Through the High Country Koala Action Group Inc, she rescues injured wildlife at all hours, organises habitat restoration plantings, and inspires her community through education and events. Her dedication proves that one person’s passion can mobilise an entire community for conservation.
Local Legend of the Land Court – Ms Aileen Harrison:  Individual for a Lifetime Achievement Award.
For more than a decade, Aileen Harrison led the Oakey Coal Action Alliance in a landmark fight to protect prime agricultural and strategic cropping land from coal mining. Standing firm against political shifts, legal challenges, and intense pressure, Aileen has defended water resources and farmland that feed our communities, embodying courage and tenacity in the face of enormous odds.
Koala Krusaders – Gomaren & Doctors Creek Catchment Landcare Group:  Group Annual Achievement Award.
For over 24 years, this Landcare group has brought landholders together to care for their catchment. Their ambitious “Bring Back Koalas” project has already planted more than 6,000 koala food trees, linked vital wildlife corridors, and engaged hundreds of residents in habitat restoration and environmental education. Their work ensures future generations might still see koalas in the wild.

Mr Tallon said the AGM was not just a governance milestone, but also a celebration of community. “Our region’s environmental future depends on everyday people stepping up. These winners remind us that whether your impact is felt in a single valley or across the state, it matters — deeply.”

The DDEC AGM and Awards Ceremony was held on Wednesday 27 August at 5.30pm at 1a Heller St Rangeville, with all members and supporters attending

Submitted By:
Ahri Tallon – Coordinator, Darling Downs Environment Council
info@ddec.org.au
0455 619 454
Photographs: Ann Alcock.

Charity Race Day Tickets Now On Sale!

Newshound
-
0
Charity Race Day Tickets Now On Sale!

Tickets for the Toowoomba Hospice Charity Race Day, proudly supported by Neil Mansell Transport, are now available! Join us at Clifford Park Racecourse on Friday 6th September to kick off the Spring Racing Carnival in style.

Toowoomba Hospice Business Manager, Mark Munro, said he was looking forward to another successful event. “We hope to welcome at least 200 guests this year. We’ve made a few exciting changes to encourage everyone to dig a little deeper, with the aim of raising $30,000 for the Hospice,” Mr Munro said.

Race Day is one of the Hospice’s major fundraising and social events, with all proceeds helping fund the daily operations of this vital community facility, which provides free palliative care for adults.

Tickets are just $110 and can be purchased via the Hospice website: www.toowoombahospice.org.au/hospice-charity-race-day

Your ticket includes:
 Racecourse entry
 Complimentary drink on arrival
 Canapés
 A delicious two-course plated dinner (alternate drop)

Toowoomba Hospice Fundraising and Events Coordinator, Claire Roselio, said: “The best part of supporting our Charity Race Day is knowing you’re raising funds for your local Hospice.

The Toowoomba Hospice is a local charity, proud to reinvest the money raised back into our community – supporting local businesses, companies, families, and individuals.”

For more information
�� events@toowoombahospice.org.au
�� 07 4659 8500

World Science Festival Queensland Returns To Toowoomba With Robots And Rocketry

Newshound
-
0
World Science Festival Queensland Returns To Toowoomba With Robots And Rocketry

Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience as World Science Festival Queensland returns to Toowoomba in August at Queensland Museum Cobb+Co.

This year’s theme, Robots and Rocketry, will explore the cutting-edge wonders of STEM through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

The festival kicks off on Friday 15 August with a Student Day, offering school groups and home educators a day of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) learning, followed by a free Community Day on Saturday 16 August.

Whether you’re a budding scientist, a curious explorer, or simply looking for a fun, family-friendly outing, this free event promises to ignite imagination and spark curiosity for all ages.

Visitors will be able to experience three activity zones:
Lift Off: An exciting area where visitors can launch their own rockets and reach for the stars.
Roving Worlds: Perfect for tech enthusiasts, this zone offers engaging robotics and coding activities.
Surviving Space: A fascinating look into the science of growing plants in outer space, offering insights into life beyond Earth.

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said World Science Festival Queensland is an exciting fusion of science learning, inspiration, and entertainment. “Over the past 10 years, the World Science Festival Brisbane and its regional touring program has engaged nearly two million students and community members across Queensland, generating more than $54 million for the state’s economy,” Minister Langbroek said.

“The Crisafulli Government recognises and supports World Science Festival Queensland as an important educational platform that sparks curiosity in STEM learning in our communities.”

GERKIES.COM.AU

Queensland Museum – World Science Festival Ipswich 2024

Queensland Museum CEO Dr Jim Thompson said World Science Festival Queensland continues to captivate audiences with stimulating STEM activations that inspire awe in our universe and the exciting possibilities of tomorrow.

 

“By bringing this highly anticipated and much-enjoyed event from New York to Brisbane, Toowoomba and beyond, Queensland Museum is fulfilling its goal to provide transformational engagement that educate, entertain and connect people across this great state,” Dr Thompson said. “Following Toowoomba, World Science Festival Queensland will travel to Gladstone on 29-30 August.”

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to explore the wonders of science and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Entry and all activities for Community Day are FREE and the Student Day is fully booked.  For more information on World Science Festival Queensland in Toowoomba, visit worldsciencefestival.com.au

Submitted By:
Jess Walters
Marketing and Media Officer
Marketing and Communication
Queensland Museum Cobb+Co

123...217Page 2 of 217