Brisbane Bug Snappers

Join us in Toowoomba for a floral and insect macro session at the annual Carnival of Flowers.

(Please check this event for the final date closer to September, as it may shift once the official 2026 event program is released.)

Plan for the day:

• 7.30am: Meet in Queens Park by the Alfred Thomas Memorial (Centre of the floral beds) to begin
• 9.30am: Re-group at the Alfred Thomas Memorial and head for morning tea at the local coffee shop
• 10.30am: Move to Laurel Bank Park (meet at the Information Stall)
• 12.30pm: Re-group at the Laurel Bank Information Stall and head for lunch

Optional:

• There are additional show-garden tours, as well as public gardens at Highfield, Picnic Point, Spring Bluff, the University of Southern Queensland Japanese Garden and the Queensland State Rose Garden for those who want to stay for the rest of the day, or even overnight for a 2-day trip.

What to bring

• Camera (you don't need a macro lens, use whatever camera/lens you have & feel comfortable with)
• Sunscreen & Hats
• Water
• Wear comfortable shoes for light walking
• Jumper/ Warm Clothing (mornings/evenings can be cold)

Transport

• You will need to arrange private transport or ride-share to and around Toowoomba

Finding us
If you're running late or looking for the group at any stage you can contact Katie on 0477 972 655

Costs
This is a free event but please bring your wallet to pay for any food, event guides, private-garden tour tickets or other souvenirs you might like to buy while there.

Please be aware
Our eyes may be on the bugs, but the Carnival of Flowers is just as much about the gardens. Please be careful about where you're standing and avoid the temptation to step into the flower beds when chasing a good subject - there are staff overseeing the beds in the public gardens and you will get in trouble if you're caught bushwacking!

Recommended
Since Toowoomba is a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and we will be starting early to catch the bugs and get ahead of the crowds, we suggest traveling up on Friday evening and staying overnight. There are multiple hotels/motels/motor inns located near Queens Park.

Motel Suggestions