Cunnamulla, Queensland
Bringing the community together, one event at a time
Population: 1,233 people
Key industry: Agriculture, particularly beef cattle and sheep farming
Distance to the nearest capital city: Approximately 750 km west of Brisbane
Quick fact: Cunnamulla is the only settlement along the old Cobb & Co route in south-west Queensland that has survived as a town. Cobb & Co coaches first reached Cunnamulla in 1879.
Summary
For Cunnamulla, the Showgrounds are much more than a place for an annual event. They are a space where people from across the region come together, reconnect and share experiences.
With support from Rural Aid’s Community Development program, the Showgrounds were upgraded with improvements to kitchen facilities, wiring, irrigation, turf and fencing.
The improvements have made the grounds safer, more functional and easier for volunteers to manage.
Assets
- Strong community spirit and resilience
- Active sporting and community clubs
- Strong volunteer culture
- Cunnamulla Showgrounds and recreational precinct
- Proud agricultural heritage
- Rich Indigenous and local history
- Location on major tourism routes
- Family-friendly rural lifestyle
Challenges
- Population decline
- Long-term drought impacts
- Volunteer burnout
- Ageing recreational infrastructure
- Limited youth opportunities
- Loss of local services and jobs
- Seasonal tourism patterns
- Limited family facilities at community venues
Goals
- Strengthen community connection and belonging
- Modernise and improve community facilities
- Grow participation in community events
- Support and grow local volunteerism
- Strengthen sporting and recreational opportunities
- Support young people and families
- Increase visitation and tourism appeal
- Showcase Cunnamulla as a great place to live and visit
More about this project
How did they do it?
Rural Aid funding supported practical upgrades including safer kitchen facilities, upgraded wiring, irrigation, turf and fencing.
These improvements were focused on the infrastructure that volunteers and event organisers rely on to deliver community activities.
Why did they do it?
The community wanted to protect an important place for connection.
For many people across the region, the Show provides one of the few opportunities each year to see friends, neighbours and family. Improving the Showgrounds helps ensure those opportunities can continue.
What changed as a result?
The upgrades have created a safer and more reliable environment for volunteers and event organisers.
A more functional kitchen has reduced stress for people catering events, while improved turf, irrigation and landscaping have created a greener and more welcoming setting.
The improved grounds have contributed to a successful and growing annual Show, with more visitors helping support local businesses. Plans for additional horse and motorbike activities are also helping build momentum.
Their advice for other communities
Create opportunities for your community to come together and look after each other.
Even practical improvements can have a lasting impact when they support connection, shared experiences and community wellbeing.
