TOOWOOMBA FEATURE
There’s a lot to love about Toowoomba By TRACEY JOHNSTONE
F
lowing through the Toowoomba region is a rich tapestry of community spirit, indigenous history, glorious farmland, a vibrant city, and a bustling life stretched across the generations. Sitting just on the edge of the Great Dividing Range and only about 90 minutes drive west of Brisbane, Toowoomba is perfect place to wind down from a busy life and move into an affordable lifestyle full of culture, history, recreation, gardening, new friendships and clean, crisp living. The greater Toowoomba region is made up of 16 towns each with their own unique character. The area is serviced by the Wellcamp Airport with direct flights to most major centres. There are 24 retirement living accommodation choices in the region. Realestate.com.au reports the median property prices over the last year range from $442,500 for houses to $250,000 for units. “Based on five years of sales, Toowoomba City has seen a compound growth rate of 4.8% for houses and -5.7% for units,” the site reports. Many of the homes exude old-world charm and are built as bungalows,
colonial style and Federation homes. Toowoomba’s medical services are outstanding. The region is serviced by a large public hospital and several smaller facilities along with many medical specialists. New residents to the region can kick back and breath in the country lifestyle or throw themselves full tilt into a range of activities and events to keep them comfortably busy every day they choose to get out and about. The region is full of gardens and more gardens which why is it known as the
Garden City. Considered one of the major delights of the region for both residents and the multitudes of visitors is the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. The Spring event is a joy to experience for even the most die-hard non-gardener. If keeping the brain active is high on the retirement list, the local vibrant U3A group is offers many interesting choices of education and experiences in the company of like-minded retirees. The region showcases its heritage at the Cobb+Co Museum which takes visitors back in time to horse-drawn
carriages and steam trains. It has interactive displays and heritage trade workshops in silversmithing, millinery, whip plaiting and blacksmithing. Fancy some live theatre or music? The heritage-listed Empire Theatre is Australia’s largest regional performing arts complex. It hosts everything from opera to comedy and musical theatre. Exhibits change regularly at the Toowoomba Regional Art Gallery. It holds a large collection of Australian artist’s works along with works from Asia and Europe. Just step outside the Gallery to find a colourful array of laneway art. For the active resident there are a multitude of walking trails and 70kms of cycle paths. The local council supports older residents getting out and about through its Change Project. It provides a wide range of low-cost activities, encouraging everyone to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. The program provides activities to suit a wide variety of fitness levels. Toowoomba offers something for everyone whether you are an active or relaxed resident. From art and education, to great wine and food, healthy living, clean air and friendly neighbours - it’s the place to be.
This is our invitation to you! Pack a picnic and stroll through our Region’s award-winning parks and gardens
Laurel Bank Park
Queens Park
Peacehaven Botanic Park
Japanese Garden
A kaleidoscope of colour, Laurel Bank Park features manicured gardens, mature trees, children’s play equipment, barbecue and picnic areas and two croquet lawns.
Queens Park is something to behold, with bright flower beds, large canopies of stately trees and an off-leash area that keeps the local dogs very happy.
Peacehaven Botanic Park is home to more than 400 different native plants and trees, expansive green lawns and stunning views towards the Bunya Mountains.
Visitors to the University of Southern Queensland’s Japanese Garden are treated to waterfalls, traditional Japanese bridges, cherry blossom trees, bamboo avenues and a tea house.
50 Hill St, Toowoomba
43 Lindsay St, Toowoomba
56 Kuhls Rd, Highfields
20 Regent St, Darling Heights
www.tr.qld.gov.au/parks 30 YOUR TIME MAGAZINE / March 2022
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