TWO dollars an hour is all it costs to experience world-class entertainment and Queensland’s best in agriculture, food and wine at this year’s Royal Queensland Show, the Ekka.
The Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland has this year invested $2 million in free entertainment at the show to ensure budget-conscious families can enjoy the best-value event of its kind, and experience world-class Australian-first entertainment.
RNA chief executive Brendan Christou said the $2 million entertainment investment was the biggest in the Ekka’s 138-year history.
“We are committed to offering visitors an event they cannot experience anywhere else but also ensure it can be enjoyed on any budget,’’ Mr Christou said.
“A family of four spends, on average, eight hours at the show which equates to $2 an hour per person; we feel that is unbeatable value.
“It’s about showcasing the best of the best, from entertainment to food, to competitions; we are dedicated to ensuring visitors can experience Queensland’s best on show.”
Mr Christou said families could save 30 per cent on ticket bundles available exclusively online.
For the first time in its history, the Ekka will be open for “two full weekends of fun” between Friday, August 8, and Saturday, August 17. In an Australian-first production the Ekka will also run EkkaNITES featuring lasers, water fountains, fireworks and live entertainment for the full 10 days of the show.
Australian country musician Troy Cassar-Daley will perform, along with backstage host from The Voice Kids Australia Prinnie Stevens.
While new forms of entertainment will make their debut at this year’s Ekka, organisers have not forgotten to bring back the traditions loved by families across Queensland.
“The heart and soul of the show will always be in our traditions, animals and competitions which continue to get stronger each year,” Mr Christou said. “Where the Ekka can re-invent itself to keep in touch with its audience is our entertainment around the grounds which is why we have heavily invested in it.”
Queensland Government has also discounted public transport tickets for a third year, allowing adults to travel to the Ekka for $6 while concession-card holders pay only $3.
