OUR SAY: Carnival of Flowers shines on state stage

'THE fact the event beat out the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games only reinforces just how well admired the tourism drawcard is.'

Cr Geoff McDonald, Kate Scott and Ross Begent celebrating the Carnival of Flowers' fourth win at the Queensland Tourism Awards last night. Picture: Contributed

OUR SAY: THERE is no denying or questioning the Carnival of Flowers' legendary status now.

Up against Queensland's best events our Carnival secured its fourth win at the Queensland Tourism Awards when it won the Major Festival and Events category at the weekend.

The fact the event beat out the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games only reinforces just how well admired the tourism drawcard is.

From humble beginnings in 1949 the carnival has grown from a simple parade to a 10-day festival that reportedly added $14 million to the Toowoomba economy this year.

I'm an unashamed Carnival fan - always making sure I attend at least the parade with my family every year.

I love Carnival because it's an event the entire community gets behind every year and that is why it is such a success.

Things really liven up around town at carnival time because so many people are genuinely excited.

From businesses decorating their shop fronts to those eager to dance the night in Queens Park, and of course the parade, there really is something for everyone.

Now all we need is a little more luck - just imagine if we became the state's first entrant into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame in a decade.

Originally published as OUR SAY: Carnival of Flowers shines on state stage