North Burnett community called to have say on show holiday date

Residents of the North Burnett have been encouraged to have their say on upcoming show holidays – or risk not having one at all.

WILD RIDE ON THE WHIZZER: Kayla Naughton and Sandra McCormack had a fun time on the Whizzer at the Mount Perry Show. Photo Rose Reed / Central & North Burnett Times

The North Burnett hosts six of the most popular shows on the Queensland calendar, but each year there is confusion as to when residents are able to have a show day holiday.

In previous years, residents of Mundubbera have celebrated their show holiday on the Friday of their three-day show, with the other townships in the region celebrating their show holiday in line with Ekka in August.

In 2024, according to the North Burnett Regional Council, this practice will remain the same, with the Mundubbera Show holiday set for Friday, May 10 and Biggenden, Eidsvold, Gayndah, Mt Perry, and Monto celebrating on Monday, August 12.

As Mundubbera is the only show in the region which runs on a weekday (typically from Friday to Sunday) they are the only town eligible for a weekday holiday.

However, the North Burnett Council have proposed four options for future years, in the hopes of aligning the region in 2025 and beyond.

Option one would keep show holidays the same as previous years, option two would align the entire region to the Ekka show holiday, option three would align the entire region to the Mundubbera show holiday, and option four would cancel all show holidays across the region.

Claire Morgan at the 2019 Mount Perry Show.

“The current approach of offering two show holidays across the North Burnett can result in some economic and resource challenges for local businesses and schools to name a few, and Council would like to explore options with our communities,” a council spokesperson said.

“North Burnett agricultural shows have a long and proud history and show holidays are an important part of these events.”

North Burnett residents have been encouraged to submit their choice via a survey which will be open until 5pm Friday, December 8.

Mayor Lez Hotz said the communities voice on a consistent show holiday is important for the region.

“I encourage all residents and organisations to take the time to complete the survey,” he said.

“Your valuable feedback will be used to assist Council in understanding the views of our North Burnett communities and Council decisions on Show Holiday dates from 2025 and beyond.”

Find the link to the survey here.

Residents who may have difficulty in completing the survey are encouraged to contact staff at local Customer Service and Library Centres, or by calling 1300 696 272.

Originally published as North Burnett community called to have say on show holiday date