Entertainment
17 July, 2025
All the fun of the show
THE Cairns Show is well underway with thrill rides, showbags, competitions, displays and fireworks, celebrating 120 years of uniquely Australian experiences at the iconic Cairns Showgrounds.
Organisers are encouraging locals to embrace the festivities as the event gets into full swing.
Cairns Show Association president Ian Allen said the grounds were “full to capacity” this year, boasting larger rides than even the Brisbane Ekka, a packed entertainment program, and a strong “family-like” turnout across pavilions, competitions, and produce displays.
“The work that goes into the Cairns Show is incredible,” he said.
“Many of the showmen were up until two or three in the morning setting up after coming straight from Innisfail and Mareeba. But it’s all worth it when you see the smiles and laughter on kids’ faces.”
Among the most quintessentially-Cairns’ attractions is the Australian pole climb championships, which continue across Thursday and Friday. Competitors race up a formidable 25m pine pole using toe spikes, with prizes and bragging rights on the line.
“The quickest climbers get to the top in about 10 seconds,” said show association vice-president Glen Hunter.
“We’ve got locals, professionals, even kids as young as nine competing,” he said.
“The event draws climbers from across the country and overseas, with safety managed by SES crews. It’s magic to watch.
“They’re up there cutting limbs, racing the clock and competing for around $8000 in prize money.”
Another one to watch is the woodchop competition, attracting intergenerational competitors from as far as Tasmania.
“We’ve got young choppers aged 16 through to blokes in their 80s, all battling it out across 18 races,” Mr Hunter said.
“It’s something we really want to see handed down – a tradition that’s lasted as long as the show itself.”
Of course, no Australian show would be complete without the treasured showbag – a concept unique to this country, says Gordon Richards of Showbag Warehouse.
“Most other countries have no idea what a showbag is,” said Mr Richards, who has been bringing his showbags to Cairns for 50 years.
“They were originally called sample bags, with companies like Nestlé, Cadbury, and even coal companies, giving away goods.
“Now we’ve got licensed novelty bags like Minecraft and Stitch and they’re always a massive hit.”
Mr Richards said showbags remained one of the most exciting parts of the show for children.
“There’s nothing better than seeing a kid’s face light up when they get the bag they want. It’s a truly Aussie tradition.”
Families can also enjoy equestrian events, show rides, heritage displays and exhibitions across 32 competition categories, from photography and fine arts to horticulture and livestock. Fireworks will light up the sky Thursday at 9pm and again Friday night at 9pm for the grand finale.
More information is available at
