General News
30 March, 2026
153rd Rheola Carnival set to excite
The Rheola Charity Carnival’s true country tradition and celebration of community spirit will return this Easter Monday, now running in its impressive 153rd year.
The Rheola Charity Carnival’s true country tradition and celebration of community spirit will return this Easter Monday, now running in its impressive 153rd year.
For committee member Julie Piening, the event’s longevity is just a small part of what makes the day so remarkable.
“What makes it so special is its authenticity. It’s a fully volunteer-run event that brings together locals and visitors for a genuine, relaxed country day out,” she said.
There will be a form of country entertainment for the whole family, including woodchopping, vintage tractor pulls, car show and shines, sheep dog trials and pony club events, alongside a wide range of food.
“It’s affordable, family-friendly, and offers a chance to step away from the hustle of larger centres and enjoy a day of real country entertainment,” Ms Piening said.
This year, the carnival is excited to introduce a brand-new novelty event, ‘Guess the Weight of the Gold Nugget’.
“The nugget was found locally by Brent Shannon, known from Aussie Gold Hunters, which adds a really unique local connection to the competition,” Ms Piening said.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome back the much-loved egg toss after a break last year, as well as the return of the giant slide and a jumping castle, with affordable all-day ride wristbands for kids.
“Live music is another highlight, with Greg Champion returning after enjoying last year’s event so much. We’ve created a dedicated live music space next to the hall where people can sit, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere.”
As with its major success every Easter weekend, Ms Piening said last year’s carnival saw a fantastic turnout.
“With thousands of people coming through the gates across the day, it was wonderful to see such strong support from both locals and visitors, and the atmosphere really reflected what the event is all about — families, friends and the wider community enjoying time together,” she said.
Last year, the carnival raised a colossal amount, with just over $32,000 supporting Maryborough District Health Service’s Dunolly campus, Inglewood District Health Service, and Rheola Hall and Recreation Reserve.
“Our goal is to raise as much as we can for our beneficiaries while delivering a great day for the community ... success for us isn’t just measured in dollars, it’s also about the turnout, the atmosphere, and seeing people enjoying themselves,” Ms Piening said.
During a time where families are feeling the pressure of rising living costs, she said this event is an example of affordable entertainment families can still have over a long weekend.
“We’d really like people to know that in a time of rising living costs, there are still affordable, high-quality events close to home. The Rheola Charity Carnival offers a full day of entertainment for just $10 entry for adults, with children under 14 free,” Ms Piening said.
“It’s a chance to stay local, support regional communities, and be part of something with a long and proud history, all while having a genuinely fun and memorable day out.”
Rheola Charity Carnival will return next Easter Monday, April 6.
Updates on the event can be found on the Rheola Charity Carnival Facebook page.