The countdown is on to the big events of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 60th anniversary following Monday’s launch of the Young Ambassador program.

Four young women have nominated for this year’s program to date with entries open until Monday, July 6.

Toowoomba Regional Council Tourism, Events and Parks Services portfolio leader Cr Joe Ramia said young people aged between 18 and 28 were welcome to join the Ambassador program.

Cr Ramia said enthusiastic young people could enjoy a variety of personal and professional development opportunities while promoting the region’s wonderful attributes.

“Apart from improving and broadening their own contacts and gaining personal development, the Ambassadors will help to raise funds for the Pyjama Foundation Toowoomba and the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s “Youth at Risk” program,” he said.

At the launch, Young Ambassador Program entrants Rebecca Gillam (sponsored by Highfields Better Business), Emily Marsh (Abberton’s Human Resources) and Sian Bloor (Platinum Health) met Mayor Peter Taylor, councillors, Carnival sponsors and organisers. Fellow entrant Viv Doneley (USQ) was unable to attend due to illness.

Telstra Queensland Businesswoman of the Year Bronwyn Sheehan, who is the founder of the Pyjama Foundation, related her business experiences to more than 50 guests at the launch.

Cr Ramia said special additions to the Carnival program from September 18 to 27 would ensure a memorable Diamond Anniversary event.

“Residents and visitors will be treated to numerous surprises and new twists to signature events including the Grand Central Floral Parade, Ergon Energy Flower, Food and Wine Festival, Heritage Building Society Live Concert Series, The Chronicle Home and Exhibition Gardens and more than 40 community events."

All Young Ambassador Program enquiries and other Carnival questions can be directed to the Carnival office on 4688 6439 or visit www.tcof.com.au

Caption: Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Young Ambassador entrants (from left) Emily Marsh, Sian Bloor and Rebecca Gillam (right) with Mayor Peter Taylor at the official launch of the 2009 Program at the Cube Hotel.