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How Toowoomba City Beat The Drought And Saved The Carnival
There is no better time to enjoy and celebrate gardens, flowers, good wine and music than during Toowoomba's famous spring Carnival of Flowers (Toowoomba is in Australia, so spring is in September). Despite suffering the worst drought since 1911, Toowoomba has come out tops and shown other drought-stricken Australian cities like Perth, how a city can be water-wise and still have fabulous gardens. Where garden beds were left fallow, new public art were created.
There is no better time to enjoy and celebrate gardens, flowers, good wine and music than during Toowoomba’s famous spring Carnival of Flowers (Toowoomba is in Australia, so spring is in September). Despite suffering the worst drought since 1911, Toowoomba has come out tops and shown other drought-stricken Australian cities like Perth, how a city can be water-wise and still have fabulous gardens. Where garden beds were left fallow, new public art were created.
The drought this year has been particularly challenging, as the sparse rain combined with water restrictions and cool temperatures meant that nurturing competition gardens took on another level of difficulty.
The Toowoomba Arts council constructed a new concept in 2007, named Avant Garden, which creates public art, all by local artists on voluntary basis, to feature around the town. A special trail map has been created for visitors to drive around town and view them. Tourists can get free information from the Visitor Information Center.
Thankfully, the drought has not affected the yearly parade, and 2007 will see the winner of the Australian Idol, Kate DeAraugo lead the parade from the Toowoomba Grand Central shopping center. Other sponsors include home loan providers in Toowoomba, as well as marketing and advertising services in Toowoomba.
Toowoomba boasts of many fine motels and other accommodation options. Given that the Carnival of Flowers attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, please book ahead.