No train station for Ekka 2023 as Cross River Rail works power on

Ekka-goers who usually go to the show by train will have to change their plans this year, as Cross River Rail construction ramps up.

The thousands of Queenslanders who rely on taking the train right into the heart of the Ekka will have to find another way to get to the iconic event with demolition of the station already under way as part of the Cross River Rail project.

The new Exhibition train station will be open all year round, but is not expected to be completed until 2025, meaning Bowen Hills and Fortitude Valley will be the closest stations for visitors to this year’s Royal Queensland Show.

Although the government is remaining tight-lipped on exactly what other alternative transport options will be offered, it is understood extra bus services will be put on with more details will be revealed as early as tomorrow morning.

How the new Exhibition Station will look

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said construction at the Ekka precinct was “charging ahead”, meaning that this year trains would not travel directly to the showgrounds via Ekka station.

“We know how much Queenslanders love the Ekka, so there will be plenty of other public transport options available,” he said.

“We want to make sure people can get to the Ekka safely and easily to enjoy their strawberry sundaes, woodchopping competitions, carnival rides and everything else that makes this iconic event so great.”

RNA chief executive Brendan Christou said he would have liked the Ekka station to be open for this year’s show, but understood it was necessary to make way for the new station.

“We want our valued Ekka patrons to know that you can still catch the train to the Show from nearby stations or take advantage of high frequency bus services dropping off at neighbouring stops,” he said.

“We thank Cross River Rail, Translink and Queensland Rail for working with us to ensure multiple public transport options are available for this year’s Ekka.”

RNA chief executive Brendan Christou. Picture Lachie Millard

It is hoped the new station will improve transport options for patients and the 6000 health workers at the nearby Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and significantly improve access to the 250-odd events held every year at the RNA Showgrounds and King St entertainment precinct.

“In its place, Cross River Rail is delivering a new fully accessible 365-days-a-year train station at the Brisbane Showgrounds, which will service the growing entertainment, business and health precinct every day of the year – not just for special events like the Ekka,” he said.

Excitement is building for this year’s Ekka with only 77 days until the gates swing open.

Organisers are anticipating a bumper show after Covid forced its cancellation two years in a row from 2020 to 2021.

“We look forward to the new station opening in the future and the immense benefits it will bring to the Brisbane Showgrounds, the events sector, the community and surrounding precinct,” Mr Christou said.