Cakes & Cookery Competitions
Explore the Rockhampton region’s culinary excellence at the Rocky Show's Cakes and Cookery Competition – a cherished annual showcase of our local foodies. From beginning enthusiasts to seasoned bakers, we welcome all to share their kitchen creativity. See an enticing array of homemade delights, including artisanal preserves, classic scones, biscuits and slices, sumptuous cakes, and even delectable damper.
Our inclusive competition features dedicated sections for juniors and participants with disabilities, alongside a wide range of open categories. Whether you're perfecting your grandmother's recipe or experimenting with new flavours or decorating styles, your culinary creation deserves to be celebrated. Register your entry today.
What will spectators see?
Spectators can explore an impressive array of local culinary talent, from artfully decorated cakes to perfectly executed baked goods. The cake decorating and cookery competitions showcase handcrafted icing decorations and creative designs that demonstrate remarkable skill and imagination. Browse through the comprehensive range of categories in the Cake Decorating and Cookery Competition Schedules to nominate your speciality.
Each exhibit represents hours of dedication from our local baking community. The displays offer inspiration for both experienced and aspiring bakers alike. Children particularly enjoy the decorated birthday cakes, while adults appreciate the technical precision on show.
Take time to explore the displays – you might find yourself motivated to enter your own creation in next year's competitions.
How are the Cake Decorating and Cookery Competitions Judged?
Our judges will evaluate each entry based on several key criteria: taste, texture, and presentation are at the forefront. Creativity and originality will earn extra points.
Key Dates
Nominations Close: 11.59pm Friday 30 May 2025
Exhibit Delivery: Please deliver your exhibit to the James Lawrence Pavilion (access via New Exhibition Road) 2pm - 6pm Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Judging: Wednesday 11 June 2025
Exhibit Collection: Please collect your exhibit from the James Lawrence Pavilion (access via New Exhibition Road) 9am - 12pm Saturday 14 June 2025.
How to Enter
Please read through the documents below to ensure you understand the range of categories, how to register your entries online and the rules of competition.
Cake Decorating
Cake Decorating Competition Schedule
Showday Online Nomination Guide
General Competition Regulations
Cookery
Cookery Competition Schedule
Showday Online Nomination Guide
General Competition Regulations
Nominate for Cake Decorating or Cookery Here
Who organises the Cake Decorating and Cookery Competitions?
The Cake Decorating Competition is organised by the Rockhampton Cake Decorators Committee. The Cake Decorators Committee can be contacted by emailing RockhamptonQCDA@gmail.com or calling Leanne Gibson on 0409 499 402 or Lea Kettle on 0407 628 337.
The Cookery Competition is organised by the Rockhampton Agricultural Show Cookery Committee. The Cookery Committee can be contacted by calling Carolyn Roberts on 0418 227 595.
Competition Supporters
The Rockhampton Agricultural Show is proud to celebrate the artistry and skill of our Cake Decorating and Cookery Competitions. These events bring together talented bakers, decorators, and cooks to showcase their creativity and culinary expertise.
Cake Decorating
A heartfelt thank you to the generous supporters who make the Cake Decorating Section possible:
- Lea & Cameron Kettle
- Naomi Jones
- Queensland Cake Decorators Association Rockhampton Branch
- Ross and Leanne Gibson
- Valarie and Ted Ciesiolka
Your contributions towards prize money, awards, and the success of this competition are deeply appreciated.
Cookery
The Cookery Section and its jams, preserves, and fruit cakes, is currently seeking sponsors and supporters. Your support could help shine a spotlight on this beloved tradition and inspire the next generation of culinary enthusiasts.
If you’re passionate about supporting these competitions, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact us at show@rrc.qld.gov.au to find out how you can get involved with the Cake Decorating and Cookery Competitions at the Rockhampton Agricultural Show.