Inaugural Townsville Eats attracts thousands of foodies to the CBD

Thousands of foodies flocked to the CBD to be part of the first ever Townsville Eats.

Approximately 10,000 people attended the event on Friday night.

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the inaugural Townsville Eats was a spectacular success.

“Council established Townsville Eats to create an event that would encourage people into the CBD to provide a boost to local traders,” Cr Hill said.

“Thousands of people visited the CBD to be part of Townsville Eats – a first of its kind for our city.

“CBD traders, from restaurants to retailers, reported significantly increased sales from new and returning customers.”

Cr Hill said Council will facilitate extra food vendors and food trucks for the next Townsville Eats due to the size and scale of the first event.

“We’ve listened to the feedback that the only downside was the popularity of the event was a factor in people having to wait for food and to find a seat,”Cr Hill said.

“Council is already working with CBD traders and local food trucks to ensure there are even more options – and seating – for everyone who attends the next Townsville Eats.”

Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said it was fantastic to see thousands of people flock to Flinders St for the event.

“Council is doing many things to encourage people to visit the CBD and this is a great example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved when we work collaboratively with local businesses,” Cr Greaney said.

“I’m thrilled to hear about so many businesses that had major sales increases from staying open later on Friday night.

“Council will continue to build on the success of the first Townsville Eats and we hope the local community – and CBD traders – continue to support this event going forward each month.”

Gecko Interiors owner Lucy Downes said Townsville Eats had helped her to triple her daily trade on Friday night alone.

“We wanted to see the CBD burst into life and that’s exactly what happened,” Ms Downes said.

“This was a huge success for all the retailers that participated.

“A huge number of customers that I served on Friday night commented that it was the first time they had been to the city in years – and we need to keep encouraging them to return.

“I’d like to thank Mayor Jenny Hill and her team of Councillors for organising an event of such high calibre in the CBD.”