Retire to picture-perfect Toowoomba
Toowoomba is a terrific place to visit and an even better place to retire. The regional city, 128km from Brisbane, has turned cool and colourful with its CBD streets evolving into outdoor art galleries.
Toowoomba began being painted in a new vibrant light after 2013 when local and world-class artists descended for the First Coat Street Art Festival. The city is now home to more than 80 large-scale works dotted around CBD streets and lanes.
Some of the most popular include Fintan Magee’s huge mural of an elephant on the intersection of Ruthven and Union streets. The Queensland artist’s work is on display in public spaces around the world.
Another striking mural is One and the Same by Melbourne-based artist Matt Adnate. The huge portrait of an indigenous child was created using paint spray cans and can be admired at 49 Neil Street. The incredible detail in the child’s eyes have made it a local favourite.
Wandering the CBD streets and lanes to admire the outdoor gallery is a wonderful way to spend a few hours. The quantity and quality of some of Australia’s best street art will dazzle you. And with so many cosy cafes around the CBD you will be spoilt for choice when you need a stop for a coffee and to refuel.
Toowoomba is also surrounded by natural beauty with some stunning walks and national parks.
Known as the Garden City for its very popular Carnival of Flowers in September, here are some of the best parks in Toowoomba for a picnic or a stroll.
Queens Park: In Lindsay Street, East Toowoomba, this is the city’s premiere and meticulously tended park. It is home to Toowoomba’s Botanic Garden and features colourful floral beds, open spaces and walking tracks.
Picnic Point Parklands: Travel to Tourist Road, Rangeville, for panoramic views across Table Top Mountain and the Lockyer Valley. At night, the views are taken to the next level when the distant lights of Brisbane begin to appear. The parklands are heritage-listed and provide barbecue areas, a cafe and walking trails.
Japanese Garden: Inside the University of Southern Queensland on Regent Street is the largest traditionally designed Japanese garden in Australia. Pack your picnic basket!
Toowoomba Waterbird Habitat: Stroll the 7.5 hectares of natural habitat and parks with three lakes and shallow lagoon, home to a large population of birdlife. Find this peaceful space on Waterbird Drive at Rangeville.
To savour the lifestyle and all the facilities Toowoomba has to offer in your retirement, find out more about The Ninth Middle Ridge community under construction within the Toowoomba Golf Club. Call (07) 4602 9099 or email live@theninthmiddleridge.com.au