Toowoomba, September 20, 2025 — The skies opened, and so did our hearts. What began as a wet and windy morning soon turned into one of the most joy-filled days our city has ever seen. As umbrellas dotted the streets and rain danced on the roads, something extraordinary happened: the name of Jesus was lifted high through song, colour, and unity — and a float for His glory won the entire parade.
A Parade of Praise in the Rain
The theme for this year’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers Grand Central Floral Parade was Floral Frenzy, and while others may have seen only grey skies, our team saw an opportunity to shine light in the storm. From the very start, we prayed that no matter the weather, God’s presence would be what people remembered — and He answered in the most unexpected way.
As we rolled down Ruthven Street, we began singing “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.”
Our voices rose above the rain, echoing between buildings and blooming flower floats. Onlookers smiled, waved, and joined in. In that moment, our city became a sanctuary — worship spilling into every street corner.
The Gospel on Parade
Every petal, every smile, every note of our song carried the same message: Jesus loves this city.
We didn’t march for trophies — we marched for hearts. To remind Toowoomba that there is hope, that God holds every life tenderly in His hands, and that grace still blooms in the most unexpected places.
When the parade ended and the results were announced, our team stood in stunned joy — Living Grace Church had won! A float for Jesus, created by ordinary people with extraordinary faith, had taken home the top prize.
Giving Glory Where It Belongs
Our first response wasn’t “we did it,” but “thank You, Lord.”
We gathered, prayed, and gave thanks — not just for the win, but for what it represented. A public moment of favour, a chance to show that when the Church moves in unity and humility, beauty follows.
Even more beautiful than the Grand Champion prize was the decision that followed:
to give the prize money back — sowing it into local charities and causes that lift up others, just as Christ has lifted us.
“Freely you have received; freely give.” – Matthew 10:8
When Grace Blooms in the Streets
Rain soaked our clothes that day, but not our joy.
Every drop felt like heaven’s applause, a reminder that the Gospel still moves hearts when we show up with love, humility, and a song of praise.
As the wheels of the float turned, so did the hearts of many — proof that God is not confined to church walls but delights in being celebrated right in the middle of our city streets.
What Comes Next
We’re already dreaming about next year — not because we want another trophy, but because we want to keep telling this story: that Jesus still holds Toowoomba in His hands, and that love and unity can transform a city one flower at a time.
To everyone who prayed, built, sang, and stood in the rain — thank you.
You didn’t just build a float.
You built a moment that will echo in eternity.
