One of Australia’s most iconic horticultural events is expected to deliver an $11 million boost to the Sunshine Coast economy.
The 41st annual Queensland Garden Show, running from Friday, July 11, to Sunday, July 13, is expected to draw more than 40,000 visitors to Nambour and surrounds.
Held across seven hectares, the event showcases tens of thousands of plants, more than 100 live talks and demos, a major speaker lineup and new collaborations with top chefs and tourism events.
During its four-decade history, the show has pumped an estimated $200 million into the local economy, with 65 per cent of attendees travelling from outside the Sunshine Coast.
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the event included the best in horticulture and garden design and it was a significant tourism drawcard.
“That means millions of dollars being invested into local businesses – whether that’s cafes, restaurants or accommodation,” he said.
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The show has also linked with The Curated Plate food festival, featuring chef demonstrations on the Cook’s Garden Stage.
MP for Nicklin Marty Hunt said the festival offered a variety of attractions.
“Whether you’re interested in gardens, the great outdoors, or cooking – we have something for everyone,” he said.
“These events are so important for attracting new visitors to our area and we know they’ll be back for more.”
More than 60,000 plants were expected to be sold each day, with gardeners lining up early to snap up rare and limited edition varieties from more than 50 nurseries.
The event boasts more than 360 exhibitors and themed zones including the Giant Kitchen Garden, the Living Backyard wildlife space and the Poultry Spectacular.
Organiser Marion Beazley lauded the speaker line-up.
“There really is no better place to get advice from the greatest experts in the Australian gardening industry. We even have a plant clinic where those in the know answer all the curly questions gardeners bring to the show each year,” she said.
Fan favourite garden personalities from ABC’s Gardening Australia including Costa Georgiadis, Sophie Thomson, Jerry Coleby-Williams and Millie Ross were set to return to the stage, joined by Charlie Albone of Better Homes & Gardens and Selling Homes Australia fame.
Sunshine Coast foodie Martin Duncan was expected to host the Cook’s Garden Stage, featuring live demos by some of the region’s best chefs as part of a cross-promotion with the Curated Plate festival.
Also returning is the daily 1pm human crowing competition, where participants strut their stuff in a battle of beaks.
Gates open at 8am and close 4pm daily. Tickets can be purchased at qldgardenshow.com.au.
