Community & Business
1 April, 2026
A thriving community
Despite a smaller turnout than in previous years, Showcasing Pittsworth and Surrounds once again proved that success is not measured solely in numbers but in spirit. The day captured the essence of our community showcasing the local talents, businesses and organisations that make our region thrive.
Joint organisers, Pittsworth District Alliance and Gardens of the Downs, agreed that this year’s event ran smoothly and welcomed a good number of visitors to town.
On the courthouse corner in the main street, audiences enjoyed live music by vocalist group, the Singsationals, and community band, Black Inc.
Across the roundabout, the University of the Third Age's ukulele students entertained in front of Price Busters with their burgeoning musical talents.
The Soldiers Memorial School of Arts welcomed visitors into the R.S.L. and Crafty Quilters rooms.
There was a display of small quilts and cuddle blankets, made by members of the Crafty Quilters that will be donated to the Toowoomba Hospital for sick patients.
The quilts were made from fabric that was gifted to the group throughout the year.
The Gardens of the Downs organised three open gardens for the day at the cost of $10.
The first garden, located on White Street, belonged to Nick and Hollie Biel.
This young and energetic family deserves great praise for their beautifully presented garden, which clearly reflects the significant time, care and effort invested in its upkeep.
The second garden in Steele Street was the work of father-son duo Steve and Luke Griffiths.
Over the past two years, they have completely transformed the space, with only a single original plant remaining.
Luke is partial to roses, and the front garden showcases them in abundance.
Among the highlights is the elegant tea rose Monsieur Tillier, first bred in 1891 by Alexandre Bernaix in France.
The final garden featured was that of Allan and Kerri Denning.
Set on a 1,700 square metre corner block at the intersection of Hill and Murray Streets, their property is home to a magnificent brick residence, beautifully framed by well-established jacaranda trees.
An impressive 800 square metres of the block is dedicated to lush lawn, maintained in pristine condition with timed pop-up sprinklers.
When the couple first moved in ten years ago, the property was so heavily treed that the house was barely visible.
The Gardens of the Downs recorded more than 100 people who purchased tickets to view the gardens, including a bus of 38 visitors from Jimboomba.
Another unique attraction was the rare rocks and gem display at Denis and Judy Thompson’s residence in Grand Street.
Denis has been collecting rare rocks and gems for over 60 years.
He had a vast display of ribbon stone, all of which came from the Northern Territory.
There were countless other businesses and community groups show-casing their very best on the day, each contributing to the vibrant atmosphere and highlighting the depth of talent and dedication that exists throughout the district.
With this year’s decline in numbers, and the town looking ahead to its 150 year celebration in September, the organisers are considering holding the event biennially.
