Show eyes record crowds thanks to thrilling line-up
by Cameron Outridge
The Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show is hoping to welcome a record number of visitors this year. Show Society President Rowan O’Hara is optimistic about hitting the 40,000 mark, positioning it as the third largest show in Queensland, just behind Brisbane and Cairns.
“If everything's on trend and the weather is good, we're striving for 40,000 people through the gates this year. From six years ago up to 2023, the show has grown 92 percent in numbers,” said Mr O'Hara. “We are really truly up there. We aim to be as popular a show as we can be, continuing to push those traditions of farming, agriculture, and local produce that make us unique.”
The Show has become synonymous with family-friendly fun, agriculture and local produce. Mr O’Hara, who has been part of the Show for 25 years and president since 2019, emphasised the importance of agricultural education. “What I love about the job is the community surrounding agriculture and also the agricultural education. It’s important to explain to people about food and fibre, where it comes from, and its significance,” he explained.
Entertainment Highlights
This year, the June 14, 15 and 16 Show promises an array of attractions catering to all ages and interests. “We have a record number of trade exhibitors. The grounds are absolutely full. But of course, as always, we have the good traditional stuff,” he said.
Educational Demonstrations: The White’s IGA Education Stage will feature local producers discussing various aspects of agriculture.
Animal Shows: From the popular honey show emphasising the importance of bees to the animal nursery and camel rides, there’s plenty for animal lovers.
Exciting Arena Events: The main arena will host V8 Utes, motorbike chariots, a Wild Western show and a Bison Stampede. “There'll be about 20-plus American bison loose in the arena. It’s part of a whole show,” said Mr O’Hara.
Horse Shows: Renowned horseman Dave Manchon will lead a show with wild horses and brumbies running through the arena, along with Light Horse Tent Pegging and a Vintage Speedway.
Family Activities: Puppet shows, kids’ areas, school dance competitions, and pedal tractors for the little ones ensure there’s something for everyone.
Grand Finale: The event will conclude with a spectacular 12-minute pyrotechnics and fireworks show, complete with a video and soundtrack celebrating agriculture across Australia.
Parking and Transport
To ease parking issues Mr O’Hara encouraged patrons to park in Nambour CBD and take advantage of buses running to the Showgrounds. “We’ll have buses running right through town from five bus stops. There are over a thousand parks in the Nambour CBD, and we encourage people to park in town and use the free bus service to the grounds.”
Praying for sunny skies
With a positive weather forecast and a variety of attractions, Mr O'Hara is hopeful that cost-of-living pressures won’t deter families from enjoying the show. “There's oodles of entertainment here, much of it free. We've really put a lot of effort into making it enjoyable for everyone,” he said.
“What I love about the Show is it is the only event that everyone can be a part of. It doesn't matter what age or nationality, you can always be a part of the Show in some form. Whether it's entering, whether it's visiting, whether it's getting on a horse, whether it's putting in a piece of artwork or a kid putting in some Lego – everyone can be a part of this.”