From pyrotechnics and porta-loos to parking plans and photography, Western Downs Regional Council is helping community groups take their events to the next level through a free Events Bootcamp on Saturday 16 May 2026.
Hosted in Chinchilla, the Events Bootcamp is designed for anyone involved in planning or delivering community events; whether you're running a long‑standing festival, organising a smaller local gathering, or exploring a new event idea.
Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Cr Peter Saxelby said the initiative reflects Council's priority to empower communities to develop local initiatives, strengthen connections, and shape the future of the region.
"Council recognises that strong, locally driven events are at the heart of our vibrant communities, driving economic growth and community connection" Cr Saxelby said.
"The Events Bootcamp is about empowering locals with the confidence, skills, and practical knowledge to bring great ideas to life.
"By investing in people and capability, we are supporting communities to create events that reflect their passion, strengthen social connections and shape the future of the Western Downs," he said.
Each session, led by experienced industry professionals, are specifically tailored for community run organisations to provide tools, resources and actionable advice to support everything from early planning through to promotion and event delivery.
Presenter, creative strategist and event expert Sally Porteous, said she is excited to be delivering her IDEA to LIVE workshop in person.
"This is a wonderful initiative and an exceptional opportunity for local event and festival creators to come together, connect, and learn," Ms Porteous said.
"My IDEA to LIVE workshop is designed to help organisers put their event idea into a framework, so they can understand early on whether it's ready for expansion or needs some more tweaking before being shared with the world," she said.
The day will conclude with a networking event from 4pm, which is open to both event organisers and local event-related businesses. This session will bring together organisers with photographers, caterers, suppliers and other service providers, creating opportunities to build relationships that support events across the Western Downs.
The Western Downs Events Bootcamp is free to attend, with limited places available.
Registration options are available for event organisers attending the full Bootcamp program, as well as event‑related businesses wishing to participate in the networking session, via the registration link.
At this time, attendance is capped at two representatives per organisation or business.
