Entertainment
28 July, 2025
70,000 gather at the show
THE 120th Cairns Show wrapped up last week after three vibrant days of rides, exhibitions and good old-fashioned competition, with this year’s pole climbing event delivering a thrilling finale for crowds at the main arena.
More than 70,000 people poured through the gates across the three-day event, edging closer to the show’s all-time attendance record of 82,000 set in 2019.
Cairns Show Association president Ian Allen said Thursday night’s crowd was “packed” and credited the strong turnout to a renewed focus on local agriculture, crafts and exhibitions.
“From the fresh produce to the animals and handmade goods, the local flavour is what brings people in year after year,” he said.
Families enjoyed farm animals, marvelled at horse displays and enjoyed hands-on experiences with show favourites, from livestock judging to trick-riding ponies dressed to impress.
While sideshow alley, food trucks and fireworks kept families entertained, the action in the pole climbing arena, a spectacle unique to the Cairns Show, where athletes scaled 25m poles armed with nothing but spurs, belts and sheer determination, provided the wow factor.
