Council backs Fraser Coast community celebrations
Published on 04 March 2026
Country festivals, Christmas carols and community shows are among the local events being supported through Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Community Celebration Sponsorship Program over the next three years.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the program supports events that showcase the region’s spirit and personality while bringing people together.
“These community celebrations are an important part of the social fabric of the Fraser Coast, creating opportunities for people to connect, celebrate and share in what makes their towns unique,” he said.
“By providing three-year sponsorship, Council is giving local organisers the certainty they need to plan ahead and grow events that enrich community life and build pride in our region.
“These events may be locally focused, but their impact is far-reaching — strengthening community wellbeing, activating public spaces and supporting a vibrant and inclusive region.”
Events supported through the program include:
- Sunday in the Park — Maryborough Excelsior City Band Inc
- Mary Christmas Street Party and Easter Scavenger Hunt — Maryborough City Progress Association
- Board Crazy Burrum Heads — Windwanderers
- Fraser Coast Show — Fraser Coast Agriculture Show Society
- Coalfest — Burrum Coal Discovery Festival Inc
- Tiaro Bulls and Barrels — Tiaro State School P&C Association
- Tiaro Field Day — Tiaro and District Landcare
- Bauple Nut Bash — Bauple & District Recreation Ground Association
- Carols in the Country Tiaro — Gundiah Memorial Hall Association
- Hervey Bay Carols by Candlelight — Hervey Bay Christian Ministers Association
Communities spokesman Cr Phil Truscott said the program recognises the important role locally driven events play in bringing diverse groups together.
“These events are organised by passionate community groups and volunteers who create welcoming spaces for residents of all ages to participate,” he said.
“They celebrate our heritage, culture and achievements while strengthening the connections that make communities resilient.
“Supporting these events ensures residents across the Fraser Coast — including in our smaller towns — can enjoy meaningful celebrations close to home.”
Cr Seymour said the Community Celebration Sponsorship Program plays a key role in delivering Council’s Regional Events Strategy.
“Our strategy recognises that community events are not just entertainment — they are vital to building a region where people feel connected, supported and proud of where they live,” he said.
“These celebrations help tell the story of the Fraser Coast and ensure our strong community spirit continues for generations to come.”