Bureau of Meteorology predicting rain, thunderstorms for Toowoomba at New Year’s Eve

A number of major outdoor events in Toowoomba could be impacted after the Bureau of Meteorology predicted showers and even thunderstorms for New Year’s Eve. Our NYE guide here:

Rain and even thunderstorms could dampen New Year’s Eve long weekend celebrations in Toowoomba, with a number of outdoor events potentially affected.

The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted a 70 per cent chance of showers (up to 15mm) on Sunday, with the possibility of thunderstorms on the day.

Temperatures are expected to sit between 19-26C, slightly higher than the average for December but lower than January’s.

This is expected to continue into New Year’s Day, with scattered thunderstorms predicted on Tuesday.

In a statement, a spokeswoman said there was even a low chance of a severe storm, that could bring heavy rain, lightning, strong winds and even hail.

“A surface trough will lie across parts of southern Queensland on New Year’s Eve and, in conjunction with a new upper-level trough system, may trigger thunderstorm activity in addition to showers through southern Queensland, including the Darling Downs and Toowoomba.

“With the possibility of thunderstorms, there could be falls higher than 15mm as well as strong winds and possible hail.

“There is a possibility (10-20 per cent) probability at this stage) of severe thunderstorm activity over the weekend including on New Year’s Eve, which could bring damaging winds, locally heavy rainfall and the possibility of large hail.”

SUPPORT CROWD: 3500 people at Toowoomba Speedway in 2016.

It puts major events across the New Year’s Eve weekend at Clifford Park Racecourse and the Toowoomba Speedway in jeopardy.

The Toowoomba Turf Club is hosting its annual Mort and Co King of The Mountain from December 27 until New Year’s Day, with thousands predicted to turn up to Clifford Park.

Meanwhile, the Toowoomba Speedway will run its Lightning Sprints on New Year’s Eve, with spectators to be treated to live music and fireworks.

One event unaffected will be the usual fireworks at Queens Park, which were canned by the Toowoomba Regional Council due to perceived “insensitivities”.

Check out our list of New Year’s Eve long weekend events happening in Toowoomba below:

1. NYE Western Style — City Golf Club

The City Golf Club will have fireworks at 9pm and midnight along with live entertainment and a barbecue themed menu at its NYE western event.

Participants are encouraged to bring their cowboy hats and boots, with the event featuring a barbecue-themed menu and live entertainment.

Book your table now on 4636 9000.

2. Superheroes vs Villains Party — Bodega Bar

Prepare for a night of heroic feats and villainous shenanigans, with Bodega hosting a free NYE party from 6pm.

Along with live entertainment and confetti canons, there will also be prizes for the best dressed superheroes and villains.

3. Secret Day Out — Discovery Coaches

Toowoomba’s Discovery Coaches is once again running its Secret Day Out, with passengers heading to an unknown destination to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

Kicking off from 9am, the tour includes travel, morning tea and lunch and will get guests back in time for the evening’s NYE entertainment.

4. King of The Mountain — Clifford Park Racecourse

Tickets are selling fast for the Mort and Co King of the Mountain Horse Race, returning to Clifford Park Toowoomba this December and New Year’s Day.

Marketing itself as one of Queensland’s richest horse races, the multi-day event includes live entertainment, hospitality packages and numerous activations of the precinct.

5. Super Sedans/Modified Sedans — Toowoomba Speedway

Motorsport fans will be treated to two days of action at the speedway in Charlton, with the venue hosting super sedans, modified sedans and compact speedcars.

A live band will be in the pits after racing on Sunday night for the NYE “pit party”, culminating with fireworks at midnight.

6. NYE Bush Dance — Jondaryan Woolshed

The Ridgee Didge Bush Band will ring in 2024 in true county style at the historic Jondaryan Woolshed on New Year’s Eve.

Dancing runs from 8pm until midnight, with tea, damper and supper included in the ticket.

Accommodation and campaign is available.

7. Back 2 Basics — The Cube Hotel

Skip the line for New Year’s Eve, with the Cube Hotel offering patrons the chance to pick up wristbands from 4pm.

The party includes a cocktail party, cash grab competition, retro DJ and karaoke, with the countdown to midnight including confetti and glitter cannons.

8. Toowoomba Jazz Society — Rink 46

The Toowoomba Jazz Society is once again hosting popular band Connect the Dots to help patrons ring in the new year on Sunday night at Rink 46 in Drayton.

Meals will be available as per usual Bistro hours, with guests urged not to bring confetti poppers.

Originally published as Bureau of Meteorology predicting rain, thunderstorms for Toowoomba at New Year’s Eve