TOOWOOMBA'S Inbound restaurant was transformed into a sea of flowery prints this morning as gardeners and green thumbs converged for the launch of The Chronicle Garden Competition.  

Now entering its 69th year, the highly anticipated competition has drawn a record 114 entrants ready to duke it out for the grand champion spot.   

The competition judges were revealed during the morning tea. Bob Tarry picked up the mantle as city judge, Donna Hay was named the country judge and Clint Kenny will be in charge of the schools category.  

Ms Hay is new to the judging panel, her gleaming horticultural record and love of poppies placing her in good stead to pick a winner.   

"I'm looking for stories in gardens," Ms Hay said.  

"I like to go to gardens and develop an understanding of the process and how it came to be.  

"There are lots of interesting characters among the gardeners, and I like them to share their personality through their work.  

"With country gardens it also depends on how they use the layout of the land - you have to get creative with the resources you have."  

This year's event is sponsored by Heritage Bank, the University of Southern Queensland and Toowoomba Regional Council.  

USQ director of marketing Helen Nolan spoke of the event's history during her opening address, mentioning the competition predated the university.  

"USQ is keen to be involved in this year's competition, as it is a premier community event, and USQ was started by the community," Ms Nolan said.  

The launch signals the start of the competition countdown, with 20 days until judging begins. All residential gardens will be open to the public during the Carnival of Flowers. Entry to the gardens is free.