Record crowd flocks to the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show.
This year’s Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show at the Nambour Showgrounds drew a record-breaking modern-era crowd, with more than 38,000 people passing through the gates.
From show-jumping and working dog demonstrations to live music, creative arts, delicious food stalls, monster trucks, V8 races, thrilling woodchopping competitions, fireworks and sideshow rides, there was truly something for everyone to enjoy.
The photo at top right perfectly captures what the Show is all about—a vibrant blend of history, rural life, creativity, excitement and community connection. The Whites IGA Little Locavores program once again highlighted our up-and-coming local producers, and the image encapsulates so many of the values we’re proud to champion.
We were absolutely delighted with the overwhelming success of this year’s Show. It was the biggest crowd we’ve seen since the heyday of the 1980s, when Show-goers were enticed with the chance to win a house.
While we were hopeful for strong sales following significant marketing efforts—and helped along by perfect weather—the response exceeded even our highest expectations. Visitors came from every capital city, with several thousand attending from Brisbane alone. Our ticketing company commented that they hadn’t seen that level of pre-sales before.
The three-day event was a fantastic celebration of agricultural heritage, community spirit, and world-class entertainment. Thank you for the part you played in making it all happen.
Something for everyone to enjoy
We’re always mindful of the cost involved in bringing a family to the Show, which is why this year’s program included plenty of engaging, hands-on free activities and entertainment designed with families in mind. Shuttle buses to the Showgrounds made access easier, local service clubs served up affordable BBQs, and visitors were welcome to bring their own picnic if they preferred.
Organisers were fortunate to have perfect weather across all three days, and the Coast’s growing population certainly contributed to the impressive crowds. The Show is continuing to build a strong reputation, so much so that it’s now drawing comparisons to the Ekka. When our team sits down together to plan, the shared vision is clear: we’re here to create a memory-making experience for every visitor.
That vision is brought to life by an incredible team of volunteers, many of whom pour their heart and soul into making the Show what it is. At the centre of all planning is a collective commitment to engage and educate people about agricultural life, from how food and fibre are produced to the value of regional industries. We aim to entertain visitors of all ages and celebrate the strong sense of community that defines the Sunshine Coast.
Throughout the three-day event, the energy and enthusiasm from visitors, exhibitors, and entertainers were truly palpable. It’s a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved and to the unique spirit of our agricultural community.
Behind the Show Scene
To our volunteers, staff and hands on supporters, we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you SO much. There are many others who avoided the camera, in the kitchens, around the grounds, on the golf carts, behind the cameras and expertly judging. You know who you are. This heartfelt thanks goes out to you too!
The Artistic Show Prelude
For many locals, showtime actually started on Wednesday 11th June in the Pavilion with the official opening of the Gallery of Visual Arts. Creativity was on display in all forms – fashion, music, dance and of course, art. We were delighted to have Mayor Rosanna Natoli open the Gallery, and to feature entertainment from Mr Beasley’s Vintage Clothing, and Cory Carlyon who also played a glass didgeridoo made by Tina Cooper Glass Gallery.
Attendees were treated to drinks & nibbles from award winning distillers Sunshine & Sons and Kenilworth Dairies. Guest speakers included Emeritus Professor Jennifer Radbourne, as well as our Major art sponsors Sunshine Coast Art & Framing, Bienarte and Tina Cooper. Attendees also watched an up close and personal routine by the 2nd Lighthorse Regiment Woombye troop during the National Anthem. A heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making all of these working parts come together for a successful launch on the eve of the Show. A huge shout out to Jenny McKay and her loyal band of volunteers.
BIG Thanks from the SCASS President
On behalf of the SCASS Management Committee team, I particularly want to thank our sponsors and our team of tireless volunteers who were instrumental in making the 2025 Show the fantastic success that it was. None of it is possible without them.
SCASS Next Gen Ag education program recognised
Queensland Ag Shows Association recognised SCASS’ Next Gen Ag education program at its annual conference and industry awards night. This program, led by SCASS Vice President, Sam Stephens, helps inspire and connect young students with industry professionals helping to create and shape the next generation of farmers. Since inception participation has grown significantly from 40 students in 2022 to over 100 students participating in 2025 from five different schools. The program continues to foster education, engagement and interest in agriculture and farming.
New GM appointed
With new General Manager Mark Paddenburg now on board, there’s strong momentum for even more growth and innovation at the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show. Mark brings extensive experience in strategy, lobbying, partnership development and infrastructure planning – skills that are set to play a key role in taking the Show to the next level. He certainly had a baptism of fire, having started just 10 days out from this year’s event, but he handled the challenge with confidence and enthusiasm.
A long-time supporter of the Show, Mark has attended regularly over the years with his wife Michelle and their two sons, Ryan and Jordan. Now, as part of the SCASS team, he’s focused on building on the Show’s strong foundations and delivering even greater value to our patrons, members, volunteers, sponsors and loyal stakeholders into the future.
Feedback on this year’s Ag Show
We have received over 140 comments already – see what others are saying and please give us your thoughts on this year’s AG Show via our Facebook Feedback post or via our online Show Survey form. Alternatively reach out to the new GM on 0455 551 014. We look forward to hearing from you.
2026 Show Date Claimer
2026 Showtime will be from June 12 – 14th. Stay tuned for more details – we will be stepping up to a whole new level in 2026 and hope you can be part of it!
Annual General Meeting
Reminder to all SCASS Members we have our Annual General Meeting which will be held 2:00pm Saturday 30th August. Please refer to a separate email invite already sent to you.
