2019

A Look Back: The 2019 Blackbutt Avocado Festival

The 2019 Blackbutt Avocado Festival was a bustling affair, filled with excitement, community spirit, and of course, plenty of avocados. From thrilling parachute jumps to vibrant street parades, the festival offered something for everyone who gathered in the heart of Blackbutt.

Avocado Central, nestled within the Blackbutt Memorial Hall, buzzed with activity as local chef Jason Ford dazzled audiences with avocado-themed cooking demonstrations. Notable guests, including Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington and South Burnett Mayor Keith Campbell, joined Jason on stage to share their own avocado-inspired recipes and creations.

Meanwhile, outside the hall, the QCWA cafe and the Avo-bard-do Bar delighted visitors with a variety of avocado-based snacks and cocktails, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Street Parade, which temporarily diverted traffic on the D’Aguilar Highway as it made its way through the town centre towards the showgrounds. Decorated with avocados of every shape and size, the parade featured local organizations and colourful characters, including Alvin The Avocado, Blazer the Bear, and Bacon Man.

Adding a new twist to the festivities, the Avo Drop captivated spectators as parachutists descended upon the Blackbutt Showgrounds Oval. Amidst cheers and anticipation, lucky cup holders were awarded generous cash prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day’s events.

In addition to avocado-themed activities, festival-goers enjoyed a diverse range of entertainment, from traditional post-ripping ceremonies honouring Blackbutt’s timber town heritage to woodworking displays, caged bird exhibitions, and a bustling market offering an array of local goods and produce.

The presence of South Burnett Regional Council’s “South Burnett Flavours” archway and stalls highlighted the region’s vibrant food scene, showcasing the diversity and quality of boutique food producers in the area.

As the sun set on another successful Blackbutt Avocado Festival, memories of laughter, camaraderie, and the humble avocado lingered, reminding attendees of the unique charm and community spirit that define this beloved annual event.