Central Highlands Netball Carnival

Central Highlands Netball Carnival is one of Emerald’s signature events, drawing visitors from across the Central Highlands and beyond. Regional netball carnival with family-friendly atmosphere and multiple age groups.

About Central Highlands Netball Carnival

Netball CQ organises regional carnivals bringing teams from across the Central Highlands for competitive and social play. Multiple age groups compete — from juniors through to open divisions. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with canteen facilities and a supportive community around the courts.

The event typically attracts 600–1,000 visitors.

When & Where

When: Multiple carnivals throughout the season (March–September) Where: Emerald netball courts Expected attendance: 600–1,000

Why Attend

Regional netball carnivals are a strong part of Central Highlands community life. For families travelling with sporting children, these events provide competition and social connection. For spectators, they’re a genuine window into regional sporting culture.

Getting There

Emerald is accessible via the Capricorn Highway from both Brisbane (9 hours) and Rockhampton (3 hours). Emerald Airport has daily flights from Brisbane via QantasLink and Alliance Airlines.

Where to Stay

Emerald Inn offers self-contained apartments with full kitchens, free undercover parking, and fast WiFi — about ten minutes from Emerald Airport and walking distance to the CBD. Our apartments are the perfect base for event visitors: cook your own meals, do your laundry, and settle in comfortably. Book direct for the best available rate.

Tip: Book early for major events — accommodation in Emerald fills quickly during Ag-Grow, race days, and school holiday periods.

Extend Your Stay

Many visitors combine their event trip with exploration of the Central Highlands region:

• Sapphire Gemfields — fossick for sapphires at Rubyvale, 45 minutes west
• Fairbairn Dam & Lake Maraboon — fishing, kayaking, and sunset picnics, 20 minutes away
• Carnarvon Gorge — dramatic sandstone gorge with Aboriginal rock art, 3 hours south-west
• Emerald Botanic Gardens — peaceful morning walks on the Nogoa River

Plan Your Visit

• Accommodation: Emerald Inn — Deluxe, Executive, and Two Bedroom apartments
• Dining: Emerald dining guide — cafes, pubs, and local beef
• Services: Emerald services guide — supermarkets, fuel, medical
• FAQs: Emerald QLD FAQ — climate, distances, what to expect
• Contact: Emerald Inn — (07) 4980 0600 or bookings@emeraldinn.com.au