Carnival of Flowers Golden at 2016 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

Image Credit: MMM Darling Downs

The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has taken home the “Best International Major Festival or Event” at the 2016 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards held in Darwin on Friday night.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said the national accolade marked the latest award in a stellar run of industry success for Australia’s longest running horticultural event.

“The Carnival remains the Toowoomba Region’s major tourist drawcard and Council is proud to share this peak award in conjunction with our foundation sponsors, all other supporters, our magnificent home gardeners and all volunteers who bring the city and region alive each spring,” Mayor Antonio said.

TRC Tourism and Events portfolio leader Cr Geoff McDonald accepted the award for the 2015 Carnival in Darwin before praising the hard work of organisers and community volunteers.

“Carnival’s volunteers represent 300 community groups. They provide a friendly and personal greeting for visitors acting as tour guides in our parks and on visiting coaches.  Plans are well advanced for our 2017 Carnival and I know there will be plenty to admire and enjoy from September 15-24.”