Rockhampton's premier pop culture convention, CapriCon, has concluded its 7th annual event, solidifying its position as a major player in the Australian convention scene. The event, held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the Rockhampton Showgrounds, drew pop culture enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
This year's CapriCon saw an unprecedented turnout, with 6,408 visitors flooding through the gates, marking a 16% increase on 2023, showcasing the growing popularity and widespread appeal of this pop culture phenomenon.
Rockhampton Region Deputy Mayor, Cr Drew Wickerson said the event was a huge success for the region.
"CapriCon has once again proven to be a cornerstone event for our region, attracting over 30% of attendees from outside our region and boosting our local economy," Cr Wickerson said.
"The incredible turnout this year demonstrates the passion of our community and the drawing power of pop culture."
CapriCon 2024 featured an impressive roster of special guests, including Lincoln Lewis, John Jarratt of Wolf Creek fame, TikTok Cosplay Royalty RhyLeeP, and former WWE wrestler and actor Nathan Jones.
Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager Zac Garven said CapriCon stood out due to the strength of the event's diverse programming.
"From cosplay competitions to gaming tournaments, thought-provoking panels, and immersive experiences like Dodgebow, CapriCon offered something for every type of fan," Mr Garven said.
"The diversity of our program contributed significantly to the event's success and we're thrilled with the positive feedback from attendees."
The cosplay competition saw 24 participants, with the grand prize of Top Cosplayer going to Ava Kersey for their stunning portrayal of a Red Cap Mushroom Elf. The kids cosplay parade attracted over 70 participants giving our younger cosplayers a chance to pose on stage as their favourite characters.
Cosplay competition winners:
Top Cosplayer | Ava Kersey as a Red Cap Mushroom Elf
Top Crafter | Sarah Littlechild as Venti from Genshin Impact
Judges' Choice | Rolan Anselme as a Zombie
Top Team | Doom and Shrooms
The success of CapriCon 2024 has set a new benchmark for pop culture events in regional Australia, and Council are excited to build on this momentum and make it bigger and better, with CapriCon 2025 scheduled for 30 August.
CapriCon 2024 was made possible with the following support:
Presented By - Rockhampton Regional Council through Advance Rockhampton
Presenting Partner - McDonald's Central Queensland
Sponsored By - Millennium Comics & Collectables, Frenchville Sports Club, Queensland Country Bank, WIN Network, PELC, Beserk, Virtual World, Timezone
Accessibility Partner - Endeavour Foundation
Event Supporters - Compass Events Hire, CQ Today, Hit FM CQ
