Accessibility

Get ready to bloom where you’re planted! Our Carnival isn’t just a festival – it’s a celebration of inclusivity, where every guest gets a front-row seat to the most spectacular floral show in Queensland. Whether you’re navigating with wheels, walking aids, or managing invisible challenges, we’ve got your back (and your view)!

ACCESSIBILITY AT A GLANCE

We believe great experiences should be available to everyone. That’s why we’ve gone the extra mile to ensure our Carnival is as accessible as it is beautiful.

• Clearly marked accessibility icons: Look for these across our website and in our official program
• Toowoomba CBD accessibility map: Navigate our city with confidence – Toowoomba Regional Council have an online and PDF version of this handy map.
• Call us: We’re just a phone call away, and we’ll do our best to help! Chat to us on (07) 4688 6661
• Inclusion Access: this nifty site has assessed our key parks so you can check ground surfaces, gradients, toilet access (and more) to plan your trip.

HIDDEN DISABILITIES? WE SEE YOU!

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is proud to be a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. What does that mean? Our amazing staff and volunteers are trained to provide discreet, compassionate support. Sporting a sunflower lanyard? Our team is ready to help make your Carnival experience smooth, comfortable, and absolutely awesome.

OUR TOP ACCESSIBLE PARKS & GARDENS

Get ready to explore some of the most stunning parks in Queensland:

1. Queens Park Botanic Gardens: A flower lover’s paradise with wide, smooth pathways. Parking and entry along Campbell St may be most suitable for guests with mobility aids.
2. Laurel Bank Park: Gentle slopes and beautiful vistas that welcome all visitors. Concrete pathways throughout, plus a scented garden designed for the visually impaired make this a special spot.
3. Picnic Point Parkland: Stunning views with good access throughout.
4. Peacehaven Botanic Park: A tranquil space with wheelchair friendly pathways, stunning views and plenty of picnic space.
   
   

Enjoy “quiet hour” in Queens Park Botanic Gardens and Laurel Bank Park from 10am – 11am every Monday to Thursday during Carnival, with no background music for a less stimulating environment. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the gardens at a more peaceful pace.

ACCESSIBLE EVENTS

Every bloom deserves a front-row seat! Our signature events are designed with accessibility at their heart, ensuring everyone can join in the floral festivities with comfort and ease.

Grand Central Floral Parade

Don’t miss the spectacular parade action! Guests with mobility aids can secure prime viewing spots in our dedicated accessible viewing zone on Ruthven St (opposite the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery). For those who prefer an audio experience, listen for descriptive commentary at Godsall St ovals – we’ll paint the parade picture with words!

Can’t make it in person? No worries! We livestream the entire parade from our Facebook, so you can catch all the floral magic from wherever you are most comfortable.

FEASTival

Set in beautiful parklands, our FEASTival welcomes everyone with a range of accessibility features. The event is primarily held on flat lawn areas, making it easy to navigate with mobility aids. We provide a portable accessible toilet on-site, with an additional permanent accessible toilet located within 100 meters of the event grounds.

Parking a bit tricky? Use our convenient drop-off zone right at the entrance – perfect if nearby parking isn’t available. Don’t forget, Companion Cards are warmly welcomed for entry tickets!

ACCOMMODATION THAT WELCOMES EVERYONE

September is our busiest month, so planning ahead is key! Visit Toowoomba Region have a list of accommodation options that ensure your comfort and convenience. Alternatively, call the friendly staff at the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre for assistance on 1800 331 155.

Book early – our accessible accommodations fill up faster than our flower beds bloom!

TOP TRAVEL TIPS

Planning ahead is key to a fantastic Carnival experience! Make sure you bring your Companion Card – it’s your ticket to accessible entry at many events. Before you visit, check the event info on our website and program for accessible icons and detailed information to help plan your perfect day. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider headphones or earmuffs for our busier (and louder) events.

Prefer a quieter experience? Consider visiting midweek when crowds are lighter and you’ll have more space to enjoy the festivities.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!

Accessibility isn’t just a checkbox for us – we want every single guest to experience the magic of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, regardless of their mobility or ability. Let’s make some blooming great memories together!