Ekka brings huge economic boost for Brisbane and plenty of jobs

The Ekka still has 150 casual jobs to fill the Royal Queensland Show whirrs back into action following its cancellation last year because of the pandemic. SEE WHAT JOBS NEED TO BE FILLED

IT’S being billed as the Comeback Ekka and as the historic event gets ready to roll back into gear it will bring a much needed $200 million boost for the Queensland economy with it.

After Covid forced its cancellation last year for only the third time in the show’s 143-year history, organisers say they are looking forward to welcoming back crowds.

RNA Chief Executive Brendan Christou said 2021 The Royal Queensland Show creates more than 3,500 jobs.

“It’s Queensland’s largest marketplace of its kind with more than 550 exhibitor stands. People can buy a spa or they can sample the hottest chilli in the world – it truly is a unique exhibition space,” he said.

“Many people from the bush spend a week at the Ekka each year, which have flow on effects for the accommodation, retail, travel, and food and beverage sectors.”

The RNA employs about 450-500 casual staff during Ekka and has just launched a recruitment drive for 100-150 jobs.

RNA chief executive Brendan Christou. Picture: AAP image/John Gass

The diverse roles on offer include; customer relations officers, food and beverage staff, gate scanners, poultry attendants, canine cleaners, chef and crowd ushers.

With the success of The Sydney Royal Easter Show acting as a blueprint the RNA is very optimistic about this year’s Ekka, Mr Christou said.

Held in April this year, not one Covid case arose from the 700,000 odd people who passed through its gate, while organisers also reported people spent more money than previous years.

Although the Ekka is Queensland’s largest event, the Brisbane Showgrounds a thriving event venue outside of show time and pre Covid regularly saw more than 300 events at the showgrounds.

“Since the easing of mass gathering restrictions in September 2020, we have held 160 events safely with fully approved Queensland Health Covid Safe plans,” Mr Christou said.

“Diversifying our business and enabling the Showgrounds to be utilised by the community all year round, gives the RNA the capacity to invest more in the Ekka and showground facilities.”

The Ekka will make a series of major announcements Friday morning, including the Covid Safe measures in place to host the biggest event in Queensland since the pandemic hit and everything you need to know on how to buy your tickets.

The Ekka runs from Saturday August 7 until Sunday August 15.