For 75 years, the Chronicle Garden Competition has been at the heart of Toowoomba’s iconic floral celebrations, bringing our community together to showcase the creativity, dedication, and passion of local gardeners. Today, we’re thrilled to announce a new chapter in this beloved tradition — one that will ensure its legacy continues to bloom for generations to come.
The Toowoomba Hospital Foundation (THF) is honoured to take on the ownership of the Chronicle Garden Competition, carrying forward everything that makes this event so special. After six months of thoughtful discussions, The Chronicle is passing the baton to us, and we couldn’t be more excited to nurture and grow this cherished tradition.
But let’s be clear: the heart of the Chronicle Garden Competition isn’t changing. It has always been about the incredible gardeners who make Toowoomba Australia’s Garden City, and that will always remain the driving force behind this event.
Preserving a legacy, growing the future
The Chronicle will continue to play a major role as a key partner, ensuring that the competition retains its community spirit and trusted format. Familiar faces will still be involved, and all the elements you know and love will stay the same. What’s changing? THF will bring fresh energy, new resources, and an unwavering commitment to making sure this event remains accessible, inclusive, and a true celebration of our region’s gardening excellence.
This isn’t just about flowers and foliage — it’s about people. As a Foundation dedicated to supporting local healthcare, we see this transition as an opportunity to not only continue a treasured tradition but also give back in a meaningful way. With The Chronicle’s support, proceeds from sponsors and donors will help raise vital funds for the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation, particularly for the new Regional Cancer Centre. That means every bloom, every beautifully tended garden, and every passionate gardener is helping to make a real difference in the lives of those facing cancer in our community.
The Chronicle Garden Competition will remain free to entrants. As in previous years, the gardeners may ask for donations upon entry to their beautiful gardens, but this is optional.
A celebration for our community
We know that change can bring questions, but rest assured, the Chronicle Garden Competition will continue to thrive — just as you’ve always known it. Our role is to support, sustain, and celebrate this event, ensuring it remains a highlight of Toowoomba’s calendar for years to come.
“Transferring ownership of our beloved Chronicle Garden Competition to the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation really showcases the Chronicle's commitment to giving back to our community. We are extremely proud to assist with raising much-needed funds for the Hospital Foundation, in particular the Regional Cancer Centre,” says Erika Brayshaw, General Manager at The Chronicle.
Toowoomba Hospital Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy echoes this sentiment:
“Our role is to support and sustain this event, not change it. The Chronicle Garden Competition has always been about our community; the talented gardeners who make our city bloom. That remains the driving force behind this event, and always will.”
This competition has long been a source of pride for Toowoomba, drawing visitors from across the country and putting our city’s gardening talent on the map. Now, under THF’s care, we’re committed to ensuring it continues to grow and flourish, bringing people together and celebrating the green thumbs that make Toowoomba truly special.
