BRIGHTEN UP: Upbeat news from around the Darling Downs region

Here are just some of the things that happened in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs recently to brighten up your day.

BRIGHTEN UP: Here are just some of the things that made us smile in Toowoomba this week.

Toowoomba is full of positive news and that is something to celebrate, which is why we are bringing you a weekly dose of good news stories from around the region.

Here are just some of the things that happened this week to make you smile.

Volunteer firefighters honoured for selfless efforts

Not all heroes wear capes – in fact, some wear bunker gear, boots and helmets.

Volunteer firefighters from across the state have been recognised with awards as part of Rural Fire Service (RFS) Week.

Among the list of worthy recipients is South-West Regional Young Volunteer of the year Kirk Dorries.

The 21-year-old who has been volunteering at Jondaryan Rural Fire Brigade since 2017, said the opportunity to assist others had been life-changing.

Receiving the 2021 South West Regional Volunteer of the Year award is John Lemon, who has dedicated his time at the Glen Aplin Rural Fire Brigade since 2006.

Both volunteers assisted with the devastating fires that swept through Stanthorpe and the surrounds in 2019.

Read the full story by clicking here.

LOCAL HEROES: Jondaryan Rural Fire Brigade Kirk Dorries (left) and Glen Aplin Rural Fire Brigade volunteer John Lemon have received awards during RFS Week.

Toowoomba local celebrates four years in business

A business consulting organisation has celebrated four years of helping others achieve their career passions and goals.

Toowoomba’s Clarity Consulting owner Emily Hanley made a post on the business Facebook page on Monday, to mark the special occasion.

“I woke up to a cake that the kids had put four candles in and were singing happy birthday to me … I had a giggle that I had made the cake yesterday and it was half eaten, but the thought was there,” Ms Hanley said in the post.

“I want to acknowledge every business and individual who has believed in me and supported me during the last four years, including you, my social media audience.”

Ms Hanley said one of the biggest challenges had been Covid-19.

While one of her biggest client wins had been Beauty Effects being named a national finalist and potentially winner, for two consecutive years at the Australian Beauty Industry Awards.

Toowoomba's Clarity Consulting owner Emily Hanley has celebrated four years in business. Picture: Clarity Consulting

Exciting news ‘sinks’ in for award finalist after one year in business

Celebrating their first 12 months in business in style, the husband and wife behind a Toowoomba venture have been named one of three state finalists for an award.

When Ian and Chloe Watson first opened Watson’s Plumbing and Gas, they never imagined they would be heading for the Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland awards stage just one year later.

Nominated by a customer for the Service Excellence Award, the duo are not only one of three state finalists, but also the only regional contender in the category.

Find out more by clicking here.

Chloe and Ian Watson from Watson's Plumbing and Gas are in the running for an award. Monday, August 2, 2021. Picture: Nev Madsen.

Digging deep for pets experiencing homelessness

Toowoomba business Hounds on Herries has helped pamper homeless pets at part of National Homelessness Week.

Staff from the pet grooming business Emily Wilson, Emma Fearby and Kaylah Clark, gave eight complimentary baths and blow dries to pets experiencing homelessness in the Toowoomba region.

Toowoomba business Hounds on Herries staff member Emma Fearby helps pamper homeless pets at part of National Homelessness Week. Picture: Hounds on Herries.

New business releases tropical-inspired textiles

Inspired by family, one Toowoomba woman from a long thread of talented sewers has started her own business.

After years spent behind her sewing machine, Hannah Thomas, 24, has launched her new venture, The Linen Label.

Specialising in handmade products for mums, bubs and the home, the mum-of-one said her passion for sewing had been passed down from family members.

When Ms Thomas relocated to the Toowoomba region and left family behind in North Queensland, she wanted to find a way to stay connected.

The new collection features aprons, microwavable heat packs and kitchen, baby and make-up wipes, in a variety of colours and patterns.

Take a look at the products by clicking here.

The Linen Label owner Hannah Thomas and son Malachi model her handmade pieces for mum, bub and home, Thursday, July 29, 2021. Picture: Kevin Farmer