About Toowoomba

Toowoomba is a diverse regional centre to the west of Queensland’s capital, Brisbane.

It is the largest non-coastal city in Queensland and is the social and economic hub of the Darling Downs region. The city is a treasure trove of old world charm, featuring boutique wineries, quaint bed and breakfasts and the gastronomic delights of its renowned gourmet cafes and restaurants.

CLIMATE

In April 2004, the mean maximum temperature was 23.70C, while the mean minimum temperature was 14.6o C . Rainfall in the year to April 2004 amounted to 791mm, 17.7% higher than that recorded in the year to April 2003.

POPULATION

There were 92,555 persons residing in Toowoomba in 2003. Population projections to the year 2026 show that Toowoomba’s average population growth is expected to increase by 0.6% per annum, to a population of 105,313.

RETAIL & COMMERCIAL RENTAL

Low (m²/p.a) High (m²/p.a.)

CBD

Prime $175 $285

Secondary $130 $160

Suburban (retail only)

Prime $250 $420

EMPLOYMENT

For the fifth consecutive quarter, Toowoomba recorded positive annual growth in trend employment, which increased by 6.2% over the year to be at 45,190 persons in the December Quarter 2003. This growth occurred despite a slight decline in employment in quarterly terms.

Unemployment in the Toowoomba city is still at low levels when compared to other Queensland regions and State and National averages, with rates well below those recorded in Townsville(7.6%) and Rockhampton (8.5%).

In the Toowoomba region, unemployment is greater in the younger age groups, with employment at a higher level in the older age groups.

EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION

Professional employment was the most prominent occupation in Toowoomba in 2001, providing employment for 6,511 persons (or 18.2% of the total). Intermediate clerical, sales & service workers (17.7%) were the next most common form of occupation, followed by tradespersons & related workers(13.3%).

INDUSTRY

Agriculture is the largest industry in the region contributing $865.1 million or 14.0% to Gross Regional Product in 2002/03.

The Darling Downs region is a large producer of grain, cotton, beef, dairy products and pork. The region also has a growing horticultural industry, with some of the world’s largest producers of Echinacea, mushrooms and olive tree seedlings.

EDUCATION

Toowoomba has one of the highest ratios of education facilites per head of population in Australia making it one of the most prominent education centres in both Queensland and Australia.

51.7% of students are enrolled in government schools and 48.3% in non-government schools.

In terms of tertiary education, Toowoomba is home to the Southern Queensland Institute of Tafe Toowoomba Tafe College and the University of Southern Queensland (USQ).

HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

Toowoomba is served by three hospitals (two of them private) and a stand-alone day surgery. The Toowoomba Hospital has 200 beds, 9 operating theatres and a day surgery, while St. Andrews Hospital boasts 111 beds, 5 operating theatres and a day surgery. St. Vincent’s Hospital has 5 operating theatres, 188 beds and 2-day surgeries.

TRANSPORT

Rail connects Toowoomba to its major point of overseas export, Brisbane, and to the interior south-west areas of Queensland. Toowoomba is to be a major link in the proposed Melbourne to Darwin rail system.

HOUSE PRICES

As a result of a booming housing market, median house prices have risen throughout the Toowoomba LGA between the year ended March 2003 and the year ended March 2004. Rangeville (45.6%), Harlaxton (41.8%), Mount Lofty (37.4%) and South Toowoomba (35.4%) experienced the most significant growth in median house prices over this period.

Add in house price by suburb here, thanks.

TOURISM

Toowoomba boasts numerous events and attractions that draw tourists from both domestic and international markets. The Australian Gospel Music Festival staged over the Easter weekend and the Carnival of Flowers, which takes place in September, are Toowoomba’s premier tourist events, drawing thousands of visitors to the region every year.

Go treasure hunting in one of many antique stores and art galleries, to find that objet d'art that you've always wanted. Indulge your tastebuds with the wealth of gourmet treats and locally produced wines that Toowoomba is renowned for.