The North’s premier sustainability showcase is back, with Eco Fiesta 2026 set to transform Anderson Gardens into an oasis of ecology, entertainment and hands-on experiences this Sunday.
Townsville City Council is currently working around the clock to ready the city’s stunning botanic gardens for the biennial event, which will run from 9am to 3pm.
Deputy Mayor Suzy Batkovic said thousands were expected to pass through the gates for a free, family-friendly day out packed with workshops, demonstrations, live entertainment, children’s activities, markets and food trucks.
Cr Batkovic said Eco Fiesta had become a much-loved event on the city’s calendar.
“Eco Fiesta is all about bringing our community together to celebrate our incredible North Queensland lifestyle and learn simple, practical ways to live more sustainably,” she said.
“This is a fun, relaxed day out for families, but it’s also a chance to pick up practical ideas you can take home – whether that’s reducing waste, looking after your backyard or doing your part to protect our unique local wildlife.
“This year’s Eco Fiesta theme shines a spotlight on our native birdlife, and the important role our local bird species play in our natural ecosystems.
“There’ll be plenty of ways for people of all ages to get involved, including the ‘Spot the Flock’ activity where budding birdwatchers can explore the event, identify 10 bird species and collect a prize.”
The Townsville region is a well-known birdwatching paradise – it is home to about 400 different birds, equating to almost half of all bird species recorded in Australia.
The high diversity is due to the region’s unique Dry Tropics environment, which combines dry eucalypt woodlands, coastal wetlands, mangroves, and rainforests all within a short distance.
Birdlife Townsville spokesman Wal Threlfall said the group was excited to participate in this year’s Eco Fiesta.
“The Townsville region is home to approximately 400 species of Australia’s 800 birds, including the last stronghold of the critically endangered Southern Black-throated Finch,” Mr Threlfall said.
“Birds, because they are easily seen, are also a great indicator of how healthy our environment is – the more birds the healthier the environment.
“We are extremely fortunate to have on our doorstep the world-renowned and easily accessible Town Common Conservation Park.
“Birdwatching is an activity that all can participate in no matter your experience or physical limitations – you only need binoculars and a willingness to get out into nature and enjoy the benefits.”
Birdlife Townsville will join other native wildlife-focused groups at Eco Fiesta to showcase the strong partnerships that exist across the city to support and protect native species.
A myriad of other exhibitors, ranging from local businesses, market stall holders, environment and sustainability-focused organisations, community groups and food vendors, as well as workshops and live local entertainment will be on hand for all to peruse and enjoy.
