Fraser Coast winter events to add $7 million boost
Published on 03 June 2026
More than 30,000 visitors and locals are expected to attend 18 major events across the Fraser Coast over the next three months, generating more than $7 million in economic benefits for the region.
Fraser Coast Regional Council’s growing winter events calendar is expected to support accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and tourism operators, while strengthening the region’s reputation as a destination for major sporting and entertainment events.
Deputy Mayor and Events spokesperson Cr Lachlan Cosgrove said Council’s investment in attracting and supporting events was delivering real economic benefits while creating more opportunities for residents to enjoy high-quality experiences close to home.
“Events bring real benefits to our region, from supporting accommodation providers and hospitality venues through to creating flow-on opportunities for local businesses and showcasing the Fraser Coast to new audiences,” he said.
“By attracting major sporting events and festivals, we’re not only delivering experiences for our community, but also positioning the Fraser Coast as a destination capable of hosting increasingly larger events into the future, including opportunities linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Cr Cosgrove said among the sporting events on the winter calendar is the Hervey Bay Half Marathon on June 21, the Under 14 Girls Hockey State Championships from June 28 to July 1 and the All-Girls Statewide Rugby League Carnival which includes the BMD Premiership game in July.
“The Fraser Coast will also host a Queensland Pickleball Tournament in August, reflecting the rapid growth of one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports,” he said.
“The winter calendar also includes a variety of festivals and entertainment events expected to attract thousands of visitors.
“The Relish Food and Wine Festival will return to Maryborough this Saturday (June 6), followed by Garagefest, a two-day automotive festival featuring classic cars, live entertainment and family activities on June 20 and 21.
“The Odyssey Festival, celebrating retro music and nostalgia with tribute performances and camping experiences, will take place in July, while the much-loved Mary Poppins Festival returns to Maryborough on July 5.
“Our events calendar is not just focused on Hervey Bay and Maryborough, with events also bringing visitors and activity to smaller communities through initiatives such as the Tiaro Field Day, Tiaro Bulls and Barrels and the Burrum Coal Discovery Festival.
“Our region offers fantastic venues, a supportive community and experiences that competitors and visitors genuinely enjoy, which is why more event organisers are choosing the Fraser Coast.”