Festivals and events drive economic and community vibrancy across Southern Downs

30 June 2026

Festivals, fast cars and flagship community events are once again putting the Southern Downs and Granite Belt in the spotlight this winter.

As the region prepares for a busy Cold Country season of festivals and events, millions of dollars are expected to be injected into the local economy and deliver strong economic benefits as thousands of visitors flock to the Southern Downs and Granite Belt.

Mayor Melissa Hamilton said a diverse calendar of events play a vital role in celebrating the region’s identity and showcasing the unique character of the Southern Downs.

“Winter events like Jumpers and Jazz in July and the Historic Leyburn Sprints are major drawcards for the Southern Downs, bringing our towns to life and attracting visitors from well beyond the region,” Mayor Hamilton said.

“These events are part of a diverse, year round calendar that delivers real economic benefits by driving visitor spending and supporting local businesses and suppliers.”

“From major sporting spectacles such as the Australian Superbike Championships, to equestrian highlights including the Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft, alongside heritage festivals, live music, agricultural shows and community celebrations, our events showcase the depth and character of the Southern Downs.”

Portfolio Councillor for Thriving Communities Cr Joel Richters said these events not only create vibrant social experiences but also attract significant numbers of visitors from outside the region, including interstate and international travellers.

“Events across the Southern Downs do more than fill a weekend program. They create activity for local businesses, support community participation and give residents and visitors more reasons to experience what makes our region unique,” Cr Richters said.

“Local accommodation providers, cafes, restaurants, retailers, attractions and suppliers all benefit when events encourage more people to spend time in the region.”

Event organisers also play a key role in supporting local industry, with many sourcing goods and services locally.

“Behind every successful event are local committees, volunteers, businesses and community groups working together to deliver experiences that people remember and return for,” Cr Richters said.

Southern Downs Region Council is committed to supporting festivals and events through a range of initiatives, including sponsorships, grants and in-kind assistance such as access to venues, fee waivers and logistical support.

“Council-supported events are delivering measurable results for the region,” Cr Richters added.

“In 2025–26, three Council-supported events alone — Jumpers and Jazz in July, the Historic Leyburn Sprints and CelticFest — generated $8.7 million in direct and incremental expenditure and a total economic stimulus of $12.4 million.”

Many of the region’s signature events received Council support during the 2025–26 financial year and that support is expected to continue in 2026–27, including Jumpers and Jazz in July, the Historic Leyburn Sprints, the Warwick Rodeo and Gold Cup Campdraft, regional agricultural shows, the Warwick Pentathrun and a range of community festivals, along with major sporting events such as the Australian Superbike Championships.

Looking ahead, Council also anticipates supporting new and existing events for the first time in 2026–27, further broadening the region’s event offering. These include the Australian Working Sheepdog Championships in Stanthorpe and the Romancing the Stones Classical Music Festival in Warwick, alongside the Camerata Weekender and other established favourites.

Councillor Richters said Council’s updated approach ensures that investment in festivals and events is strategic and sustainable.

“Through the Event Sponsorship Program, Council is helping support events that showcase the Southern Downs, generate activity for local businesses and bring communities together, while local committees, volunteers and community groups deliver the experiences that make these events successful,” he said.

“This support is contributing to a diverse mix of events across the region, from major drawcards to community celebrations, helping to strengthen local economies and create opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with our towns.”

Councillor Richters encouraged residents and visitors alike to support the region’s events calendar.

“A strong events calendar gives residents and visitors more reasons to spend time in the Southern Downs. By supporting well-run events, Council is helping celebrate the region’s identity, strengthen community connection and support local economic activity,” he said.

For more information on Council’s Event Sponsorship Program, visit: https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/council/grants-to-business-community/event-sponsorship-program.