More than 423,000 people passed through the gates of the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) presented by Bank of Queensland (BOQ), as the state’s largest and most loved annual event marked its 150th year.
People travelled from rural towns, regional centres and cities across Queensland and beyond to attend the anniversary Show from August 8–16, while Ekka Beef Week got the celebrations underway from August 3 with the stud beef and led steer competitions.
For a century and a half, the Show has brought together the best of Queensland – from the country to the city – celebrating world-class agriculture, produce, innovation, entertainment, and animals, while creating cherished memories for generations of families.
RNA Chief Executive Brendan Christou said this year’s huge success was testament to an incredible Queensland institution that has stood the test of time.
“This year’s special anniversary provided the RNA with the unique opportunity to thank Queenslanders and Australians for their extraordinary patronage and support over 150 years,” he said.
“We are very grateful to every Queenslander who came through the gates and made this year the most memorable in the Show’s history.”
Alongside commemorative events and storytelling that highlighted Queenslanders’ connections to the Show, Mr Christou said Ekka’s focus on affordability and strong patron value was well received.
“As a not-for-profit organisation, the RNA was very mindful of rising cost of living pressures and this year we worked hard with our ride and food operators to ensure that Ekka could be enjoyed on any budget,” he said.
Visitors embraced the traditional and unique experiences that have made Ekka a Queensland institution, from beloved competitions and animals to live entertainment, rides, showbags, plus the nation’s finest food and wine.
“The Show’s competitions continued to attract interest locally and nationally, with more than 21,500 entries received across 59 competitions,” Mr Christou said.
“The EkkaNITES night show was a huge hit, with audiences packing the Main Arena each night of Show to see the legendary Human Cannonball Dave “The Bullet” Smith and the Fireworks Spectacular.
“Showbags and rides also remained major attractions, with the Bertie Beetle showbag again proving a clear Show favourite.
“For thrill-seekers, the Crazy Coaster, The Beast and The Warrior were the three most popular rides at this year’s Ekka.”
After 150 years, the enduring appeal of Ekka remains clear – bringing Queenslanders together to celebrate agriculture and the best of the state, while creating new memories and continuing traditions for generations to come.
