Wait no more – the Ekka is here

A warm winter’s day is set to usher in the state’s most loved annual event, the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) presented by RACQ, which kicks off tomorrow at the Brisbane Showgrounds.

For the next ten days about 400,000 people from rural towns and cities across Queensland and beyond will relish the chance to learn about agriculture, share stories, be entertained and delighted by exhibits.

RNA Chief Executive Brendan Christou said Ekka also provided a place for our farmers to reconnect with friends and showcase their remarkable livestock and agricultural achievements.

“With almost 60 per cent of the state in the grip of this terrible drought, many of our farmers have still made their way to show,’’ he said.

“Their resilience is remarkable and the Ekka is a time for us all to show our support for our farmers and our bush communities.”

Mr Christou said the Ekka was proud to be a partner in the Queensland Drought Appeal that was launched today at the show by the Queensland Premier.

“We are committed to helping our farming families, many of whom have exhibited at the Ekka for countless generations since the first show in 1876,’’ he said.

Donations can be made at www.qlddroughtappeal.com.au or by texting the word drought to 0484 200 200.

Ekka’s 141st show

In the Ekka’s 141st show, visitors will be excited by the return of the wildly popular Heritage Bank Racing Pigs; the new homes for large animals and the Woodchop; the expansion of the technology precinct and the introduction of a new Ekka App – a digital experience like no other.

With Ekka ticket prices dropping for the first time in more than 15 years and over 300 free things to do and see, there is something for every member of the family.

Mr Christou said the gate price for a family ticket has dropped from $89 to $80 and is even cheaper to buy online with more discounts on offer.

“We understand cost of living pressures and the impact on family budgets, so we try and make the show affordable for all to enjoy,’’ he said.

Almost 31 million people have come through the gates since the first Ekka in 1876.

This year’s show will feature brand new world class entertainment including a jam-packed night show, the return of the early children’s fireworks, plus the spectacular fireworks finale, 10,000 animals, 21,000 competition entries and brand new award winning food and wine precincts.

Day 1: Friday 10 August – HIGHLIGHTS

MEDIA DOORSTOP: 11.30am with RNA President David Thomas or Chief Executive Brendan Christou on Heritage Hill overlooking the Main Arena.

JUDGING HIGHLIGHTS:
• From 9am – Stud Beef Cattle judging, Main Arena
• Champion of Champions judging 3.30pm – 4.30pm
• From 9am – Canine judging, Dog Pavilion
• From 9am – Prime Beef Auction, Expo Place
• From 9am – Woodchop and Sawing, in the new Woodchop Arena YOU BE THE JUDGE
For the very first time at Ekka, several cookery classes will be judged live during show. Four classes – Boiled Fruit Cake, Chocolate Bar Cake, Orange Marmalade and Anzac Biscuits – will be judged tomorrow on the Fine Arts Demonstration Stage in front of Ekka guests, giving them a rare and interesting insight into the judging process.
When:- 10am & 2pm, Fine Arts Demonstration Stage, Ground Floor, Royal ICC

MEET THE STARS OF CHANNEL SEVEN
House Rules fans will have the chance to meet the show’s 2016 winners, Queensland locals Luke and Cody. The brothers from Dalby will be around the grounds tomorrow for appearances at the 7 Live Studios before an appearance in the Main Arena during the EkkaNITES show.
When: - 11am - 7 Live Studios, Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion

PERFORMANCE BY THE CAST OF BEAUTIFUL: The Carol King Musical
The cast of the award winning show Beautiful: the Carol King Musical is set to give a special performance at this year’s Ekka. Eight members of the cast, including lead Josh Piterman, will perform on the Fashion Stage in the upper level of the Royal International Convention Centre at midday and 1pm tomorrow.
When: - 12pm and 1pm FASHION STAGE, Upper level of Royal ICC

The Dogs are Out
The Canine Competition is one of the largest and most popular events at Ekka, attracting on average 2,300 entries. With judges flying in from around the world and everyone’s favourite breeds on display, the event is sure to be a crowd winner. Working Dog breeds including the Belgian shepherd dog, bearded collie, kelpie and Australian cattle dog will be judged tomorrow.
When: From 9am – Dog Pavilion

GOING, GOING, GONE
Queensland’s young auctioneers will be out in full swing when they compete in the event’s State finals. The event will see the fast talkers compete in a display of commitment and excellence to the auctioneering profession. The Prime Beef Auction will take place following the judging of the Young Auctioneers – a popular event among cattle lovers.
When: From 9am, Expo Place
Ekka Essentials:
 Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) August 10 –19, 2018
 Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills, Queensland
 Gates open at 9am
 Tickets are available online at www.ekka.com.au

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