BACKPACKERS and seasonal workers were officially welcomed to the Southern Downs at a welcome event at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre.

Southern Downs Mayor Peter Blundell said the idea for the welcome event arose from discussions by the Road Safety for Seasonal Workers and Backpackers Taskforce, which was established in May this year.

"The welcome event on October 30 was the first of this nature, and council is planning another event in mid January 2016," he said.

Over the spring and summer seasons, thee Southern Downs welcomes about 5000 seasonal backpackers for work across a range of agriculture including, but not limited to, small crops, such as salad greens, potatoes, onions, pumpkins, tomatoes and strawberries, and stone fruit, apples and grapes.

"We recognise the importance of the itinerant worker and backpacker industry as a growth industry in the region," Cr Blundell said.

"The welcome event is aimed at giving seasonal workers who are staying and working in our region, local information on a range of matters such as road safety and accommodation, with various agencies and providers onsite, in an informal social setting, with a one-stop-shop approach.

"It's also about letting them know they are appreciated in our region and an important cog in our agricultural industries. These workers are beneficial to our region and our local economies.

"Backpackers are predominantly young, and we want their stay here to be fun and memorable for the right reasons.

"We hope that their experience is a positive one and that they visit our region again in the future, and help to promote the Southern Downs in a favourable light to other travellers."

Council's website now includes a Guide for Backpackers page and the MY SDRC App has been adapted to include a "backpacker enquiry" option for seasonal workers to select for assistance if needed.

Access the Guide for Backpackers at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/our-region/backpackers-guide/guide-for-backpackers