New event portal aims to drive more to Discover Ipswich
14 February 2025
A refreshed online portal offering a one-stop-shop for events happening across Ipswich is now available, set to drive visitation to Ipswich businesses, tourism operators and venues from residents and visitors alike.
Ipswich City Council Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the city’s diverse range of enticing events is the backbone of visitation to Ipswich.
“More and more people are choosing to visit Ipswich and events are the key to growing visitation to our vibrant city,” Cr Augustine said.
“In the year ending September 2024, we welcomed a record 2 million visitors who contributed an incredible $400 million to our economy – that’s a 32 per cent increase in visitation compared to the previous year.”
Cr Augustine said Ipswich was packed to the brim with a range of events thanks to locally-driven initiatives like Ipswich Festivals, as well as attracting major events to our city year on year.
“Ipswich’s calendar is always full of unique and exciting events, from Australia’s premier country music festival to our city’s signature festival of heritage, Galvanized,” Cr Augustine said.
“In 2024, CMC Rocks alone generated 65,327 visitor nights and contributed an incredible $14 million to our local economy.
“The ‘What’s On’ portal on the Discover Ipswich website has had a makeover and users will be able to know all about what’s going on in their backyard.
“Users can now create an account and make shortlists for their favourite events, subscribe to regular event updates and the enhanced search function allows users to find events based on keyword, date, category and location.
“This portal will be a fantastic tool for all those who are interested in what’s happening across the city.
“Tourism is continuing to thrive and having access to our city’s drawcard events in one place will make a significant difference to those who are planning a trip.”
The portal draws eligible event listings from multiple sources, such as Eventbrite, Humanitix and Oztix, and curates it into browsable categories and precincts.
The new ‘What’s On’ platform is phase one of enhancing the Discover Ipswich website. Phase two will see the remainder of the site updated to enhance promotion of attractions, tours, restaurants and accommodation.
Funding for the website was secured through the Locally Led Economic Recovery Program and was jointly funded through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The portal can now be viewed at https://whatson.discoveripswich.com.au/