Toowoomba sits on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, 700 metres above sea level and about 90 minutes west of Brisbane. The Garden City earns its name — it's famous for its parks, its jacaranda trees, and the Carnival of Flowers that draws visitors every September. But in May, the spotlight belongs to the Toowoomba Running Festival, a World Athletics certified event that has grown steadily into one of the most beloved regional running events in Queensland.
The course has evolved from its origins as the Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport Marathon into a festival of running based in the city centre. The flat, sealed course is World Athletics certified, making times eligible for ranking and qualification purposes. The May timing is ideal for running conditions in Queensland — the summer humidity has broken, temperatures are mild (typically 8–16°C at start time), and Toowoomba's elevated position means consistently pleasant conditions.
ASICS Half Marathon (21.1km), Visit Toowoomba Region 10km, Grand Central 5km, Road Mile, and the full Marathon (42.2km). The multi-distance format means the event draws competitive runners alongside social participants and first-timers.
Toowoomba has an excellent food and café scene that belies its regional location. Picnic Point Lookout, Queens Park, and the Cobb+Co Museum are all worth visiting around race weekend. The city's elevation means it genuinely feels different from coastal Queensland — cooler, greener, and with a distinct sense of place.
Toowoomba is about 90 minutes west of Brisbane via the Warrego Highway (or the scenic Toowoomba Range Road). There are limited direct bus services from Brisbane. Accommodation in Toowoomba covers all price points and is plentiful given the city's size.
