Join Australian Champion Blacksmith Terry Drennan for a lesson in the custom-built blacksmithing shop.
Learn the basics of blacksmithing and create your own set of blacksmithing tools including a cold chisel, hot cutter, round punch, centre punch and tongs. As well as your tools, you will take away the basic skills of blacksmithing including operating a forge and using the tools and anvil.
After completing this workshop, you are eligible to participate in the Blacksmithing Advanced Workshops.
Meet your tutor
Terry Drennan began training as a blacksmith and farrier in Melbourne when he was 21 years old. He has won the Australian champion in blacksmithing and farriery on many occasions. At the same time, Terry never lost the skills and enthusiasm for the other traditional facets of his trade such as making decorative gates and furniture. He has been teaching blacksmithing courses at Queensland Museum Cobb+Co for 20+ years.
All our Hands-on Workshops have a limited number of participants to ensure you receive all the assistance and direction you require.
Spectators are welcome at all workshops.
Recommended for 16 years and over
Requirements
Closed-in boots (or steel-capped), long pants and long sleeves.
Discover the traditional craft of coopering with seasoned artisan David Harriman. Create your own wooden tankard (wooden mug) and learn the essential skills to continue this rare trade at home.
Meet your tutor
David Harriman learnt the basics of wood-working through high school Manual Arts, a 12 month pre-vocational TAFE Course and by completing three years of a carpentry/joinery apprenticeship. Upon this foundation he has developed his own unique style. David has achieved a number of awards in wood working competitions, including first prize at the Toowoomba Show, and has been working in his own wood crafting business for 30+ years.
All Hands-on Workshops have a limited number of participants to ensure you receive all the assistance and direction you require.
Spectators are welcome at all workshops.
Recommended 18 years and over
Requirements
Closed-in shoes, long sleeves and long pants. Please bring a water bottle.
Contact the museum for accessibility information.
Take a peek behind the iconic red curtain where you can appreciate the architecture and learn about the behind-the-scenes happenings of a working performing arts complex.
Discover the illustrious history, marvel at the stunning, architectural features and venture backstage in this comprehensive group exploration of the main Empire Theatre building and the other venues within the precinct. Led by experienced guides, this tour runs for approximately 90 minutes and includes a light morning tea.
Got a large group? Call ahead to arrange a suitable time for a private tour.
Join Australian Champion Blacksmith Terry Drennan for a lesson in the custom-built blacksmithing shop.
Once you have completed the Blacksmithing Beginner workshop, you can advance your skills further and learn riveting, forge welding, barley twisting, forming plate, forging shapes, upsetting and drawing to create a set of fireside tools including a poker, rake and shovel.
After completing this workshop, you are eligible to participate in the Blacksmithing 2-Day: Boot Scraper, Blacksmithing 2-Day: Hand axe or Damascus knife and Blacksmithing 3-Day: Candelabra Project workshops.
Meet your tutor
Terry Drennan began training as a blacksmith and farrier in Melbourne when he was 21 years old. He has won the Australian champion in blacksmithing and farriery on many occasions. At the same time, Terry never lost the skills and enthusiasm for the other traditional facets of his trade such as making decorative gates and furniture. He has been teaching blacksmithing courses at Queensland Museum Cobb+Co for 20+ years.
All hands-on Workshops have a limited number of participants to ensure you receive all the assistance and direction you require.
Spectators are welcome at all workshops.
Recommended for 16 years and over
Requirements
Closed-in boots (or steel-capped), long pants and long sleeves.
Mozart in Motion.
Lose yourself in the storm and serenity of Mozart's G minor symphonies – his No.25 full of fiery intensity, and his No.40 – a masterpiece of passion and grace. Between these iconic works, delight in Jean Françaix's charming Variations for cello and strings, featuring Queensland Symphony Orchestra Principal Cellist Hyung Suk Bae. In these expert hands, the cello sings with warmth and wit. You will also be treated to Peter Sculthorpe's Lament – a deeply moving work that echoes the soul of the Australian landscape with every note. This concert is a celebration of elegance and beauty, where classical genius meets playful sophistication.
In Bangarra's first mainstage cross-cultural collaboration, leading Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson joins beloved Bangarra alumna Deborah Brown. Together they guide their award-winning ensemble in stories that honour their mother countries and the spirit that calls them home.
Horizon is a double bill opening with Kulka by Bangarra alum Sani Townson, followed by the primary piece, The Light Inside, choreographed by Bangarra alum Deborah Brown and Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson.
Come explore the cultural forces that bind us together, across oceans and eons.
Step into the heart of rural creativity at the Bush Christmas Exhibition - an annual showcase of handcrafted treasures and gourmet delights brought to life by Australia's most talented rural and regional artisans.
Held in the lead-up to Christmas, this much-loved 10-day event is a wonderful showcase of distinctive, high-quality gifts and artisan produce. Visitors are invited to browse through this thoughtfully curated collection of work by over 100 exhibitors.
Expect the unexpected, from striking outdoor art and finely crafted homewares to one-of-a-kind jewellery, beautiful children's clothing, hand-stitched toys, original artworks, wonderful books, and irresistible treats for your pantry and table. Whether you're shopping for a heartfelt gift or indulging yourself, you'll find something special at every turn.
For three decades, Bush Christmas has proudly supported rural and regional makers from across the country alongside a select group of artisans with bush roots who now live in more urban areas. Together, they create a one-off experience that celebrates not just the joy of giving, but the enduring spirit of the land.
Bush Christmas Exhibition celebrating 30 years in 2026!
Discover Toowoomba’s Endless Edit - preloved clothing market!
Toowoomba’s Endless Edit runs once a month on a Sunday morning. See the website for current and future market dates.
These markets were created to provide a fun and easy way to buy and sell beautiful pre-loved items in Toowoomba. Conveniently located under one roof and out of Toowoomba’s weather, it aims to provide a one-stop shop for pre-loved clothing and accessories that deserve a second home.
The indoor venue has change rooms, a coffee van onsite and free car parking to ensure everyone has a great experience!
Join Simon Hay for an entertaining evening of spirit connection, mediumship readings, and healing.
Simon is a psychic medium, medical intuitive, and healer who works with clients across Australia and New Zealand through private sessions and live events. His down-to-earth style makes mediumship accessible, engaging, and surprisingly accurate—blending heartfelt moments with humour and real connection.
During the event, Simon shares personal and meaningful messages from spirit, while also educating audiences about the mediumship process. There will be an opportunity to ask questions about spirit, healing, and Simon's career.
If you're curious about communicating to spirit and wonder if your family in spirit is with you, you'll love this event.
Re ticket purchasers, there's a no refund policy. Be certain about attending before purchasing.
Not all attendees will receive readings (attendance doesn't guarantee you'll get a reading)
This is an adults only, R16 event. Parents, adult topics are discussed.
Prior to attending this event, visit Simon Hay's website, read all the information there and the disclaimer in its entirety. Thank you.
In 2026, Opera Queensland, Queensland Theatre Company and Queensland Symphony Orchestra collaborate to bring a new production of this Tony Award-winning masterpiece this acclaimed production to Toowoomba's iconic Empire Theatre for two dazzling performances.
Four decades since its Broadway premiere, Into the Woods has established itself as a beloved musical classic.
With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, Into the Woods follows iconic and well-loved characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and Rapunzel. In a world where fairy tales collide, this timeless musical asks what happens when the story ends and "… everyone lives happily ever after".
When deepest desires are fulfilled, not all wishes are granted without a cost.
Into the Woods dazzles with its unforgettable score, cast of dearly loved characters and a plot that refuses to play by the rules.
Be careful what you wish for.
Four decades since its Broadway premiere, Into the Woods has established itself as a beloved musical classic.
In 2026, Opera Queensland, Queensland Theatre Company and Queensland Symphony Orchestra collaborate to bring a new production of this Tony Award-winning masterpiece to QPAC's sparkling Glasshouse Theatre.
With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, Into the Woods follows iconic and well-loved characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and Rapunzel. In a world where fairy tales collide, this timeless musical asks what happens when the story ends and "… everyone lives happily ever after".
When deepest desires are fulfilled, not all wishes are granted without a cost…
Into the Woods dazzles with its unforgettable score, cast of dearly loved characters and a plot that refuses to play by the rules.
Cast
Nina Korbe
Amy Lehpamer
Creative Team
Director Patrick Nolan
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Book by James Lapine
Originally Directed on Broadway by James Lapine, Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick
Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia)
Theatre of Magic returns to The Empire in 2026 with four spellbinding nights, kicking off in February. Experience Australia's most magical night out!
Experience the thrill of Theatre of Magic, an exclusive show featuring Australia's top magicians and illusionists in an intimate, up-close setting.
Hidden within the Empire Theatre, this 90-minute performance blends mind-bending illusions, comedy, and close-up magic.
VIP tickets offer front-row seats and a complimentary arrival drink.
Toowoomba's must-see tourist destination!
Part of Queensland Museum and home to the National Carriage Collection, discover a variety of interactive displays, exhibits and heritage trade workshops at Cobb + Co.
Immerse yourself in Toowoomba's natural and cultural history and revisit an Australian transport era. Wander through the charming National Carriage Collection and discover how more than 50 horse-drawn vehicles played an important role in Queensland's development.
The kids will love The Coach Stop play area. They can become shop attendants in the old Museum General Store, dress up in old fashion clothes or see the world atop a life-sized replica horse.
Get your hands on history with a variety of heritage workshops (of 1-5 days) tailored for beginners through to practitioners wanting to polish their skills. Learning a traditional skill (like leadighting, blacksmithing, silversmithing and more) and creating something beautiful and functional by hand is immensely satisfying!
Take a break in Cobb's Coffee Shop and try Toowoomba's best scones!
Located a just short walk across from Toowoomba's iconic Queens Park.
Don't miss sweeping panoramic views from Toowoomba's heritage-listed Picnic Point Lookout and Parkland - 160-acres perched high on the crest of the Great Dividing Range, overlooking Main Range and the Lockyer Valley. And if you've been before, visit again because no two days are the same!
An avenue of mature hoop pines (Auracaria cunnninghamii) and South Queensland kauris (Agathis robusta) leads to manicured lawns and spectacular escarpment views. Pre-pack a picnic or use the free barbecues and find a quiet patch of grass under a bunya tree, or stop by the cafe and restaurant and take in the views over a coffee or a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. It's the perfect spot for birdwatching, quiet contemplation or ticking off a bucket-list Toowoomba selfie.
The kids will love the playground and the weekend children's train. Stretch your legs on the well signed escarpment walking trails - from an easy stroll to the nearby waterfall, to the hour-long Firetail Trail circuit or the challenging Table Top Mountain climb - a beautiful sunrise adventure!
The lower section of the park can also be accessed via Tobruk Memorial Drive and is another ideal location for impressive vistas, picnics or a barbecue.
Looking for a place to walk and relax? Nestled in suburban Rangeville, Toowoomba Water Bird Habitat is a beautiful and diverse wetland spread over 7.6 hectares (19 acres). Environmental diversity attracts a variety of water birds. Deep and shallow lakes, areas of reeds, mud-banks, islands and grassy areas provide feeding, roosting and nesting conditions for birds including Ibis, Dusky Moorhens, Black Cormorants, Plumed Whistling Ducks and Purple Swamp Hens.
More than 2000 shrubs and trees attract Sulphur Crested Cockatoos, Lorikeets, Rosellas, Kookaburras and other native birds. All of the plants are Australian species appropriate to the locality. Perimeter plantings help screen the habitat from the surrounding roads and houses, creating a peaceful atmosphere within.
Water bird habitats are characteristically light, open spaces. Large areas of grassland have been retained - the perfect spot to see Maned Wood Duck and Straw-necked Ibis.
Visit this stunning modern church in the heart of Highfields, built in 2016, with a light-filled spacious interior and peaceful landscaped gardens.
The church is open regularly for Sunday services and events as listed. This church is available for weddings, baptisms and funerals by appointment. The community hall is popular with local groups and can be hired at reasonable rates. Car boot sales are held quarterly.
You'll marvel at the large collections of 40,000 shells, antique radios and the vintage machinery, alongside the Blacksmith Shop and intriguing Boot Repair Shop, all at the Highfields Pioneer Historical Village.
You'll find everything in working order, including the 1912 Marshall Portable Steam Engine which is used to drive the vintage machinery on special days such as the Easter Vintage Festival. The 1928 Dennis Fire Engine on display is one of the original Toowoomba Fire Trucks. The 1925 Model 'T' Ford Truck was restored in the restoration workshop at the Village in 1993, and is one of many vintage vehicles on display. The B.J. Palmer Boot Repair Shop is a real piece of local history and is a reminder of time when life was much simpler.
Billy Tea and Damper served with butter and Golden Syrup is available everyday from 10am to 4pm.
Run entirely by volunteers, dedicated to preserving the history of the Darling Downs for future generations!
Discover spectacular scenery, granite outcrops, a scenic waterfall and eucalypt forest remnants in Crows Nest National Park on the edge of the Great Dividing Range.
Few places have such a wonderful variety of eucalypt trees from gums to stringybarks, bloodwoods and ironbarks, delighting the amateur naturalist. The park is a haven for wildlife including platypus, swamp wallabies, echidnas, bandicoots, lace monitors, birds, and the brush-tailed rock-wallaby, which is vulnerable to extinction in Queensland.
Discover Crows Nest Falls, on the Crows Nest Falls Lookout track, where water plunges 20 metres over steep granite cliffs. Extend the original 2.1 kilometre circuit by adding the Kauyoo Loop to The Cascades, Kauyoo Pool and Bottlebrush Pool, where you're able to take a dip on a hot summer's day.
Continue to adventure 4.5 kilometres to Koonin lookout for a glistening birds-eye-view over the Valley of Diamonds and spot brush-tailed rock-wallabies, rosellas and fantails. Stay overnight in the small bush camping area to watch nocturnal bandicoots and gliders at night. Book camping in advance.
Just half an hour's drive from Toowoomba, Crows Nest Falls can easily be combined with a visit to nearby Ravensbourne National Park.
Weeping bottlebrush, river she-oak and forest red gum line watercourses while dry vine scrubs grow in sheltered gullies where soil and moisture accumulate at the Falls, a prominent feature of Crows Nest National Park.
After good rain, water tumbles through eucalypt forest along a series of boulder-strewn cascades, before plunging 20 metres over Crows Nest Falls into a waterhole surrounded by steep, granite cliffs.
The Falls are a haven for native birds and provides many opportunities for birdwatchers. Wildflowers, including the rare Acacia granitica, flourish in the shallow, rocky soils and provide colourful displays in spring and summer.
Explore Crows Nest Creek, the falls and the Valley of Diamonds by following walking tracks that start at the picnic ground. Lookouts provide lovely views. Seasonal wildflowers provide interest for photographers and naturalists, and spotlighting for nocturnal native animals can be rewarding.
Picnic and camping areas are provided (a camping permit is required). The campground includes unpowered sites for tents and caravans. Showers, toilets, barbecues, tables, water and firewood are also provided.
