The Rockhampton Agricultural Show, a cornerstone of our community's annual calendar, will undergo a significant 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 overall enhancement of the Show experience.
The decision was made after Council participated in extensive consultation with the Showmen’s Guild of Australasia, which owns and operates the rides and sideshow alley, and aligns with similar regional shows, including Yeppoon’s two-day event and Gladstone’s one-day show. Other regions such as Fraser Coast, Emerald, and Noosa have also successfully implemented two-day show formats.
In partnership with the Guild, the Council table determined that the shift will help the Show remain financially viable in light of rising operational costs. Key areas like power, road closures, waste management, fencing, sawdust, and first aid services have all experienced significant cost increases.
Over the past few years, we've seen that Wednesday typically draws only 12-15% of overall attendance, making it clear that consolidating the Show into a two-day format will help concentrate the experience and improve overall engagement.
Despite the shift to two days, the Show will continue to offer all the beloved highlights, from exhilarating rides and sideshow alley fun to agricultural exhibitions, stage shows, and interactive workshops.
The aim is to focus on delivering a concentrated and vibrant experience for all attendees, ensuring the tradition lives on in an exciting and sustainable way.