A Strategic Move for Longevity and Enhanced Experience
The Rockhampton Agricultural Show, a cornerstone of our community's annual calendar, will undergo an important change in 2025, transitioning from its traditional three-day format to a two-day event. The decision comes as part of a forward-looking strategy to ensure the financial sustainability and experience of the Show continues to be delivered at a high standard.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams explained that the decision was made after a thorough review of event operations, visitor attendance and the changing needs of the Showmen's Guild of Australia with Council prioritising the ongoing quality and vibrancy of the Show.
"The decision was made after extensive discussions with the Showmen's Guild of Australasia, which owns and operates the rides and sideshow alley, and aligns with similar regional shows including Fraser Coast, Emerald, and Noosa," Mayor Williams said.
"Council in partnership with the Guild, determined that the shift will help the Show remain financially viable longer-term and better aligns with the needs of ride operators.
"The fact is we are seeing a change in the sector with ride operators looking to better manage their costs. This coupled with the need to ensure that we provide a full program of events and attractions across the whole show means we need to make this change now to ensure we can continue to deliver a show over the long-term.
"Over the past few years, we've seen that Wednesday draws only 12-15% of overall attendance which means we can reasonably consolidate our program into a two-day event without drastically impacting people's experience.
"I want to thank the Guild for working with Council on this and for their support and commitment to delivering a great experience for Rockhampton and regional Queensland."
President of the Showmens Guild of Australasia, Aaron Pink said the Showmens Guild fully support Council's decision to change the Rockhampton Agricultural Show to a two-day Show.
"Our commitment to the sustainability of the Show industry is unwavering, and we believe this decision will contribute to a more successful and enjoyable event for everyone involved," Mr Pink said.
"We look forward to bringing back the fun and joy of the carnival at the 2025 Rockhampton Agricultural Show. Having a more sustainable Show means that we can ensure we are bringing back all the old favourites as well as continue to bring along the big and new rides each year."
Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager, Zac Garven said the revamped two-day format will pack in all the much-loved highlights of the Rocky Show, from exhilarating rides and sideshow alley fun to agricultural exhibitions, stage shows, and interactive workshops.
"The new format will allow the Show to continue as a vital part of the community's calendar while adapting to the realities of running large-scale events in the current economic climate," Mr Garven said.
"The Rockhampton Agricultural Show remains a key pillar in the regional event schedule, bringing people together to celebrate agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit. The change to two days will ensure the tradition continues in a sustainable way for years to come."
The new two-day format will come into effect from 2025 with the Rockhampton Show scheduled to take place on the 12th and 13th June, 2025.
