Granite Belt community clubs, groups, businesses boosted by Snowflakes tourism

More than 6000 visitors trekked to Stanthorpe over the three-day event, with local community groups, schools and businesses reaping the benefits of the tourism boost.

Giorgio's Mobile Chef owner Jason Costanzo at his food stall at the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 2021 festival. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

The Granite Belt’s winter wonderland festival has been a boon for the community, with businesses and clubs given a much needed boost in revenue during a difficult time.

When parts of the state were thrust into lockdown last week, Snowflakes and Stanthorpe was in jeopardy of not going ahead, but organisers were motivated to persevere and boost the region.

Media co-ordinator Robyn Henderson said she was happy with the turnout, despite a few hiccups along the way including heavy rainfall and restrictions.

“All those community groups put in their time and effort into this festival, and that’s who we are here to support,” Mrs Henderson said.

Despite 1500 ticket cancellations throughout the week, on both Saturday and Sunday almost 4000 visitors attended the festival.

Mrs Henderson said funds raised and money made from ticket sales at Snowflakes in Stanthorpe will go back into community through clubs, groups, schools and local businesses.

Giorgio's Mobile Chef owner Jason Costanzo with wife Ivana Guagenti and six-year-old daughter Giada Costanzo at the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 2021 festival. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Giorgio’s Mobile Chef owner Jason Costanzo said his stall received plenty of support from the community.

“This is my first time at this festival, and considering all of the ups and downs with COVID and the rain, it has been successful,” he said.

Mr Costanzo said he normally catered for weddings and small functions across the region but has loved meeting more people and talking to visitors from out of town.

“Word of mouth is a really big thing in Stanthorpe so being here is excellent for the business,” he said.

Altitude 925 coffee roaster James Humble in his Coffee Shot Box at Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 2021. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Applethorpe teen James Humble said his Coffee Shot Box, which sells locally roasted coffee beans, had its “best day ever” on Saturday while parked at the Showgrounds.

“It’s been super busy and we’ve sold really well. This (type of event) has definitely boosted awareness of the business and helps to outreach us to bigger cities,” he said.

Amiens State School Parents and Citizens President Sonia Kent with students Ethan Kent (11) and Jazmin Swader (11) at their hot chips stall at the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 2021 festival. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

The Stanthorpe Pony Club and Amiens State School hot chips stall at the festival was also a success, with the money raised to be invested in school and club activities.

The school’s P&C president Sonia Kent said fundraising from the festival will be put toward a whole school camp scheduled for the end of August.

“It’s something the kids can look forward to and it’s a great opportunity for them to experience and enjoy something together, among the drought and COVID,” Mrs Kent said.

Stanthorpe Pony Club secretary Emily Foresto with President Kathy Hart at their hot chips stall at the Snowflakes in Stanthorpe 2021 festival. Photo: Madison Mifsud-Ure / Stanthorpe Border Post

Stanthorpe Pony Club secretary Emily Foresto said Snowflakes has helped the club to get their name out to the community and attract new members.

“We have raised much needed funds to pay guest instructors for our riders,” Mrs Foresto said.