Rockhampton Agricultural Show 2025 changes announced

Rockhampton Regional Council has announced a surprise overhaul of the Rockhampton Agricultural Show.

The Rockhampton Agricultural Show will be a two-day event instead of its traditional three-day event in 2025, the Rockhampton Regional Council has announced.

The Rockhampton Agricultural Show will be a two-day event instead of its traditional three-day event in 2025, the Rockhampton Regional Council has announced.

The council has stated it made its decision to ensure the financial sustainability and experience of the show could remain a high standard.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams explained the decision was made after a thorough review of event operations, visitor attendance and the changing needs of the Showmen’s Guild of Australia.

“The decision was made after extensive discussions with the Showmen’s Guild of Australasia, which owns and operates the rides and sideshow alley, and aligns with similar regional shows including Fraser Coast, Emerald, and Noosa,” Cr Williams said.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams.

“Council in partnership with the Guild, determined that the shift will help the show remain financially viable longer-term and better aligns with the needs of ride operators.

“The fact is we are seeing a change in the sector with ride operators looking to better manage their costs.

“This coupled with the need to ensure that we provide a full program of events and attractions across the whole show means we need to make this change now to ensure we can continue to deliver a show over the long-term.”

Cr Williams said council had seen the Wednesday draw only 12 to 15 per cent of overall attendance over the past few years.

He said that meant they could reasonably consolidate the program into a two-day event without drastically impacting people’s experience.

Showmen’s Guild of Australasia President Aaron Pink said they fully supported council’s decision.

“Our commitment to the sustainability of the show industry is unwavering, and we believe this decision will contribute to a more successful and enjoyable event for everyone involved,” Mr Pink said.

“We look forward to bringing back the fun and joy of the carnival at the 2025 Rockhampton Agricultural Show.

“Having a more sustainable show means that we can ensure we are bringing back all the old favourites as well as continue to bring along the big and new rides each year.”

Thousands packed through the gates for people's day at the 150th Rockhampton Agricultural Show.

Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager Zac Garven said the revamped two-day format will pack in all the much-loved highlights of the Rocky Show, from exhilarating rides and sideshow alley fun to agricultural exhibitions, stage shows, and interactive workshops.

“The new format will allow the Show to continue as a vital part of the community’s calendar while adapting to the realities of running large-scale events in the current economic climate,” Mr Garven said.

“The Rockhampton Agricultural Show remains a key pillar in the regional event schedule, bringing people together to celebrate agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit.

“The change to two days will ensure the tradition continues in a sustainable way for years to come.”

The new two-day format will come into effect from 2025 with the Rockhampton Show scheduled to take place on June 12 and 13, 2025.

Originally published as Rockhampton Agricultural Show 2025 changes announced