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.

In this podcast episode, you will discover that:

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

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STAY CONNECTED TO JUSTIN ROULLON / THE RISE AND FALL OF EASTERFEST

Podcast - The Rise & Fall of Easterfest - Listen Now

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Discussion Questions

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."

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."

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."

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."

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."

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."

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.”