Entertainment
16 July, 2025
Show turns 120 years
THE Cairns Show returns next week for its 120th anniversary, promising thrilling rides, free family entertainment and a celebration of community that continues to define Far North Queensland’s largest regional event.
Held from July 16 to 18, the show is expected to draw more than 70,000 people through the gates, generating over $1.7 million in local economic impact.
For Cairns Show Association president Ian Allen, it’s the connection with the community that matters most.
“The Cairns Show is for the people of Cairns and the surrounding community, because it is their showgrounds,” Mr Allen said.
“Having a showground right in the heart of Cairns is something special. Many other towns have had to move theirs out of town and are really struggling. But this is the Cairns Show and I encourage everyone to support it.”
This year’s show promises high-octane thrills with the Australian debut of Zero Gravity, a new $2.5 million ride making its first-ever appearance on Australian soil.
Crowd favourites The Phoenix and The Joker return, alongside classic staples like The Beast and The Warrior.
“The ride area here has more rides than the Brisbane Ekka,” Mr Allen said.
“The Showmen’s Guild tell me they wouldn’t come past Rockhampton if it wasn’t for the Cairns Show. That’s why it’s so important, not just for us, but for Mossman, Mareeba, Atherton and the smaller shows that rely on it.”
Mike Newman from Xplosive Art will deliver a special fireworks display to mark the milestone anniversary, lighting up the centre ring with a locally produced finale.
For families feeling the pinch, Mr Allen says the show remains accessible.
“We’ve kept gate prices down and all the centre ring entertainment is free. You can bring your own sandwiches, have a picnic or sit in the grandstand and enjoy the day,” he said.
Volunteers, sponsors and ride operators began arriving on Tuesday, with setup well underway. “It’s a huge logistical effort,” Mr Allen said.
“But seeing the kids’ smiles when they walk in, that’s what makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
Tickets and full program details are available at: https://bit.ly/44jE7De
