Investment in Toowoomba leads to visitor boom

Toowoomba hotelier John Potter says major infrastructure improvements and a quality events program are breathing new life into the Garden City.

Carnival of Flowers 2019: Queens Park. September 28. Picture: Bev Lacey

TOOWOOMBA hotelier John Potter says major infrastructure improvements and a quality events program are breathing new life into the Garden City.

The owner of Potter's Boutique Hotel on Margaret St said the success of 70th annual Carnival of Flowers had highlighted Toowoomba's excellent visitor appeal.

"The iconic Carnival of Flowers injects millions of dollars into the local economy each year, resulting in the full-house sign going up around town, and generating excellent national and international exposure for the region,'' Mr Potter said.

"It is the jewel in the crown of what is becoming an increasingly attractive year-round events calendar, bringing more and more people to the Darling Downs for weekend stays."

Mr Potter said Wellcamp Airport and highway upgrades had also added to Toowoomba's appeal.

"Our business has always been strong with corporate bookings during the week, but we are now seeing a spike in the weekend leisure market on the back of good events, great local food and wine and ease of travel.

"There is a sense of growing sophistication in Toowoomba as a getaway destination, with its proximity to Brisbane bringing a strong influx of couples and families.

"Our Margaret St hotel is presently running at about 80 per cent occupancy, and on the rise as the leisure market continues to improve,'' he said.
 

Originally published as Investment in Toowoomba leads to visitor boom