Justin Rouillon on Easterfest - How a Gospel Festival Shaped Toowoomba

In this episode, Tina Waldrom talks with Justin Rouillon about the incredible story of Easterfest, one of Australia’s most influential gospel music festivals. Easterfest wasn’t just about music — it became a huge community event that brought churches and locals together in a powerful way. From boosting the local economy to even lowering crime rates during the festival weekend, this gospel festival became a beloved part of Toowoomba’s culture. The conversation also highlights how the festival opened doors for many artists.

The conversation also looks at the ups and downs Easterfest faced, including the financial challenges that ultimately brought the festival to an end. Despite this, its impact on Toowoomba and Christian evangelism across Australia continues to be felt. Tina and Justin reflect on the legacy Easterfest left behind and discuss whether similar events could rise again to bring people together through faith and music. This episode will inspire listeners to think about how events like Easterfest can be a meaningful and creative way to spark evangelism and build stronger connections within communities.

 

In this podcast episode, you will discover that:

• Easterfest was a collaboration between churches and the wider community.
• The festival had a significant economic impact on Toowoomba.
• Guy Sebastian's first public performance was at Easterfest.
• Meaghan Markle was impacted by the festival
• Music Band For King & Country played Easterfest
• Delirious and The Paul Coleman Trio are connected
• The festival faced financial challenges and risks
• The demographic for music festivals has shifted over the years
• Easterfest was a grassroots movement that grew over time
• The podcast explores the rise and fall of Easterfest and its legacy
• And more…

 

SHORT VIDEO – How the Easterfest Gospel Festival Impacted the Royal Family 

 

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Discussion Questions

1. How does unity among churches create powerful opportunities for evangelism in a community?

The churches in Toowoomba worked together to partner with their city for Easterfest, leading to widespread impact. Reflect: How can your church or small group collaborate with other Christians to bless your local community?

Read: John 17:21 – "That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me."

2. In what ways can the church practically serve and bless the wider (non-church) community to create open doors for the Gospel?

Easterfest wasn’t just about music—it brought economic benefit and lowered crime rates in Toowoomba. Reflect: What needs can your community meet that demonstrate God’s Kingdom in practical ways?

Read: Jeremiah 29:7 – "Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."

3. How can evangelism go beyond traditional church activities and extend into cultural spaces (e.g., music, arts, sports)?

The festival leveraged music and even partnered with venues like pubs to reach people where they were. Reflect: What cultural or creative spaces around you could be entry points for sharing your faith?

Read: 1 Corinthians 9:22 – "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some."

4. What role does excellence and creativity play in sharing the Gospel effectively today?

Easterfest attracted major bands, created professional platforms, and influenced culture far beyond church walls. Reflect: Are you using your gifts and talents to reflect God’s excellence in evangelism?

Colossians 3:23-24 – "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

5. How do partnerships between the church and non-church entities (e.g., councils, businesses) model Christ’s influence in the marketplace?

Easterfest succeeded because Christians worked alongside non-faith-based organisations. Reflect: Are there non-Christian organisations you could partner with for a Kingdom purpose?

Read: Matthew 5:16 – "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

6. How can we trust God for the unseen and long-term impact of our evangelistic efforts?

Stories like Easterfest’s influence on anti-slavery efforts and even touching the Royal Family show how God works beyond what we see.  Reflect: Where do you need to trust God more for the unseen fruit of your evangelism?

Read: Galatians 6:9 – "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

7. Are we willing to think bigger when it comes to reaching people with the Gospel?

Easterfest aimed to make Toowoomba the “Gospel music capital of Australia,” impacting tens of thousands. Reflect: Are there bold, God-sized dreams you or your group are sensing for evangelism in your area?

Read: Ephesians 3:20 – "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”