Check out our Media Release on the Cairns Local News Website.

The Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral and Mining Association (CAPMA), organisers of the iconic Cairns Show, has been awarded $32,812 through Round 125 of the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund, supporting a key facility upgrade at the Cairns Showgrounds.

The funding will be used to upgrade the air-conditioning system in the De Jarlais Venue, ensuring the space remains cool, comfortable, and usable during the sweltering summer months typical of Far North Queensland’s tropical climate. The venue is a heavily used community space, hosting competitions, exhibitions, meetings, and events throughout the year.

Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral and Mining Association was one of sixteen organisations in the Cairns electorate to receive funding in the latest round, which distributed more than $417,000 to local community projects.
Member for Cairns, Michael Healy MP, congratulated the Association on the successful application and said the upgrade would deliver practical benefits to the community.

“The Cairns Showgrounds are an important community asset, and upgrades like this make a real difference to how these spaces are used,” Mr Healy said. “Improving cooling in the De Jarlais Venue will enhance comfort and accessibility for exhibitors, volunteers, and the public.”

A spokesperson for the Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral and Mining Association welcomed the funding, highlighting the importance of climate-appropriate infrastructure in Far North Queensland.
“Keeping our venues cool is essential in our tropical conditions,” the spokesperson said. “This upgrade will significantly improve comfort for everyone using the De Jarlais Venue, particularly during the warmer months, and allow us to continue hosting events safely and effectively.”

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund, established in 1994, returns gambling profits to Queensland communities by supporting not-for-profit organisations delivering projects that provide lasting local benefits.
Official confirmation of the funding will be received from the Department of Justice and Attorney-General in the coming days, with planning for the air-conditioning upgrade to follow grant finalisation.

Dear Valued Member,

As 2025 draws to a close, the Cairns Show Association would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your ongoing support and dedication throughout the year.

Your involvement has been vital to the success of our 2025 calendar — from the prestigious Cairns Show Wine Awards, to the excitement and community spirit of the Cairns Show, and the roar of engines at the Cairns Show Auto Spectacular. None of these much-loved events would be possible without the enthusiasm and commitment of our valued Members.

This season gives us an opportunity to reflect on what we’ve achieved together. Despite challenges along the way, your unwavering support has helped us uphold the proud traditions of the Cairns Show Association and continue to deliver events that bring our community together.

We’re thrilled to share our ‘Year in Review’ newsletter, which highlights the memorable moments of 2025, celebrates our shared accomplishments, and recognises the invaluable role our Members play in making it all happen.

Thank you for being an essential part of the Cairns Show Association family. We look forward to another year of connection, celebration, and community spirit in 2026.

Warm regards,
The Cairns Show Association Team

CAIRNS SHOW

Highlights from the Cairns Show

This year’s Cairns Show was truly one to remember as we celebrated our 120th anniversary in spectacular fashion!

Over 70,000 people came through the gates across the three days – that’s more than half of Cairns’ population joining in the festivities. The energy, excitement, and community spirit were simply unmatched.

One of the standout moments of the Show was welcoming the Melbourne Cup, which made a special appearance in the Fred Moule Exhibition Centre —-a rare and exciting experience for our visitors.

For the first time in many years, our Equestrian Events were completely full, showcasing incredible local talent and passion. The Main Arena also came alive with new entertainment acts, thrilling performances, and a vibrant atmosphere that delighted crowds of all ages.

Our exhibitors and stallholders enjoyed strong sales and engagement throughout the weekend, with many visitors eager to explore, shop, and sample the best that our region has to offer.

The 2025 Cairns Show was a fitting celebration of 120 years of tradition, community, and joy – and a true reflection of what makes the Cairns Show such a special part of our region’s history.

CAIRNS SHOW WINE AWARDS

Highlights from the Cairns Show Wine Awards

The 33rd Cairns Show Wine Awards celebrated another year of excellence in Australian winemaking, showcasing the finest wines in the heart of tropical North Queensland.

This year, over 100 wines were judged by a panel that included many new faces, with several local judges bringing fresh perspectives to the table. The introduction of ShowRunner, a new digital judging system, made the process smoother and more efficient than ever.

Over 300 wine enthusiasts attended the Public Tasting, enjoying the opportunity to sample more than 100 wines and hear the stories behind each bottle. With 20+ wineries represented, the Awards highlighted the diversity, innovation, and craftsmanship that make Australia’s wine industry truly world-class.

The Cairns Show Wine Awards was a perfect blend of tradition and new experiences – a celebration of skill, passion, and the vibrant wine community that comes together year after year.

Here’s to continuing the legacy and looking forward to the 2026 Cairns Show Wine Awards from June 17th to 20th, as we raise our glasses to another year of viticultural excellence!

CAIRNS SHOW AUTO SPECTACULAR

Highlights from the 2025 Cairns Show Auto Spectacular

The Cairns Show Auto Spectacular was an incredible weekend, with over 5,000 people attending across two action-packed days!

This year, we welcomed more elite cars than ever before, including the spectacular SmokeBomba, thrilling enthusiasts and collectors alike. While we didn’t have the Motorkhana Time Trials or a full Go-To-Whoa, we kept the crowd entertained with some fresh, exciting ideas – including the Triple M Esky Races and the Cairns Radio-Controlled Model Car Club.

A highlight of the weekend was a small cruise on the grounds for the Super 6 and Grand Champion cars, giving the public a chance to see these incredible vehicles in action.

With all the cars, entertainment, and community engagement, we had a grand time celebrating the passion, talent, and excitement that make the Auto Spectacular a must-attend event each year.

Here’s to more horsepower, thrills, and memories at the 2026 Cairns Show Auto Spectacular!

CAIRNS AGRICULTURAL, PASTORAL & MINING ASSOCIATION

Cairns Show Association – 2025 Annual General Meeting

The 2025 Annual General Meeting & Election of Office Bearers will be held on:
Friday, 28th November 2025
7:00 PM
De Jarlais Pavilion, Cairns Showgrounds

Whether you’re a member or a part of the general public, you’re welcome to get involved.
This is your hance to join the Committee and play a vital role in supporting one of Cairns’ most inconic community organisations.

 Nominations close: Friday, 21st November 2025 at 5:00 PM
 RSVP: (07) 4042 6699 |  reception@cairns-show.com

EVENTS ON THE SHOWGROUNDS

Exciting Events at the Cairns Showgrounds – The Final Weeks of 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, the Cairns Showgrounds continues to be a vibrant hub for community events, entertainment, and festive celebrations. Here’s a look at some of the standout events in the final weeks of the year:

• Saturday, 1st November – Explosive Fight Promotions: A thrilling evening of combat sports that had fans on the edge of their seats. @ Fred Moule Exhibition Centre.

• Friday, 7th November – All Heart Collective: A community-focused event bringing people together through workshops, networking, and inspiration. @ De Jarlais Pavilion (upstairs).

• Sunday, 9th November – Local Handcraft Markets: A showcase of talented artisans offering unique, handmade products perfect for gifts or personal treasures. @ Fred Moule Exhibition Centre.

• Saturday, 22nd November – Monster Madness: An adrenaline-pumping motorsport event guaranteed to excite car enthusiasts of all ages. @ Main Arena.

• Saturday, 6th December – Salvation Carols: Hosted by the Salvation Army, this festive evening brought the community together for music, celebration, and the spirit of giving. @ Main Arena.

• Sunday, 7th December – Atherton Christmas Trees & Christmas Craft Markets: A seasonal highlight featuring festive trees, local crafts, and family fun. @ Photography Room (under David Headrick Grandstand) & Fred Moule Exhibition Centre.

• Monday, 8th December – Mayor’s Christmas Hampers: Supporting local families with festive cheer and essential gifts. @ Fred Moule Exhibition Centre.

• Friday, 12th December – Cavalcade of Lights: Hosted by Hit 102.5 (Southern Cross Austereo), this magical event kicked off the annual city-wide tour of Cairns’ dazzling Christmas light displays. @ Main Arena.

HOLIDAY WISHES

Season’s Greetings from the Cairns Showgrounds

As the year draws to a close, the Cairns Showgrounds team would like to wish all our members, exhibitors, visitors, and supporters a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, and special moments with family and friends. Thank you for being part of our community and for helping make 2025 a memorable year.

Please note, the Cairns Showgrounds office and grounds will be closed from Monday, 22nd December 2025 to Friday, 2nd January 2026, reopening on Monday, 5th January 2026.

We look forward to welcoming you back in 2026 for more exciting events, celebrations, and community experiences!

 

Kind regards,
Ian Allen

President

Cairns Show Association

Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral, and Mining Association

Annual General Meeting

Dear Valued Members,

We are pleased to announce the upcoming 2025 Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members of the Cairns Show Association. This important event will take place at the De Jarlais Function Centre, Cairns Showgrounds on Friday, November 28th, commencing at 7:00 pm.

Nomination Forms for the Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members are available online (see button below) or in person at the Cairns Show Office, located within the Showgrounds. We encourage you to complete and submit your forms through one of the following methods:

1. Email: reception@cairns-show.com
2. Post: PO Box 811 Bungalow, QLD 4870
3. In person: Visit the Cairns Show Office at the Showgrounds

Please ensure that Nomination Forms reach us no later than Friday, November 21st, 2025, by 5:00 pm.

To confirm your attendance, kindly RSVP by Friday, November 21st, 2025, at 5:00 pm. You can do this via telephone at (07) 4042 6699 or through email at reception@cairns-show.com.

We appreciate your continued support, and we look forward to your participation in this significant event.

Sincerely, Ian Allen – President, Cairns Show Association

Dear valued Member,

As we approach the end of 2024, the Cairns Show Association would like to extend our deepest gratitude to every one of you for your unwavering support and dedication. Your contributions have been instrumental in making this year’s events a resounding success. From the distinguished Cairns Show Wine Awards to the vibrant and much-anticipated Cairns Show to the thrilling Cairns Show Auto Spectacular, none of these cherished annual events would be possible without the continued engagement of our esteemed Members.

This time of year offers a moment to reflect on our remarkable journey. Through the challenges and triumphs, your commitment has allowed us to uphold the spirit of our community and continue the legacy of these iconic events.

We are delighted to share our ‘Year in Review’ newsletter, where we look back on the highlights of 2024, celebrate our collective achievements, and express our sincere appreciation for your role in our success.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Cairns Show Association family. We look forward to another year of growth, joy, and shared experiences.

Regards,

Ian Allen

President

Cairns Show Association

 

Year in Review Contents:

• Cairns Show: Review
• Cairns Show Wine Awards: Review
• Cairns Show Auto Spectacular: Review
• Cairns Show Association: Ambassadors & Committee Members
• Cairns Showgrounds: Events
• Holiday Wishes from the President

CAIRNS SHOW 2024

 

Connecting the City to the Country

As Australia’s largest regional agricultural show, the Cairns Show continues to be a beloved annual event, uniting the vibrant city life with the rich rural heritage of our region. The 119th edition, held in 2024, was a resounding success, bringing more smiles, a boost in attendance, and a celebration of community spirit that resonated far and wide.

 

Highlights from the 2024 Cairns Show (17th – 19th July):

• Attendance: This year’s Show welcomed approximately 67,400 visitors, marking another successful event that brought together people of all ages for fun and festivities.
• Competitions: With over 4,100 entries across 32 sections, the competitions showcased local talent in arts, agriculture, and culinary creations. The Indigenous Arts category saw a significant rise in entries, beautifully displayed in the Fred Moule Exhibition Centre, celebrating the richness of Indigenous culture.
• New Sites: We welcomed a mix of new and returning exhibitors, adding fresh energy and diversity, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
• Bush Tukka Garden Market: Improved signage and better use of space led to increased foot traffic and positive feedback, earning the market a nomination for an international award.
  Volunteers: A big thank you to our volunteers, who filled 96% of the 227 positions, ensuring the Show ran smoothly and successfully.
• Short Videos: With the help of Camco Television, we produced 9 dynamic YouTube videos, receiving an impressive 67,300 plays, capturing the excitement of the Show.
• Star 102.7/4CA: Thanks to ARN’s support, sideshow alley vouchers and family pass giveaways boosted attendance. Their social media reach extended to 22,460 people on Facebook and 1,629 on Instagram.
• CRC Community Stage: The Community Stage featured 35 diverse acts over three days, from school musicians to cultural dancers, drawing enthusiastic crowds. A highlight was Whitfield State School’s KO Kids celebrating their 30th Anniversary.

 

Mark your calendars for the next Cairns Show, scheduled 16th – 18th July, 2025!

The Cairns Show remains a cornerstone event, where the city meets the country, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds within our community. We look forward to seeing you in 2025 for another unforgettable experience!

CAIRNS SHOW WINE AWARDS 2024

 

To Examine Wine Quality and Style in the Context of a Tropical Location

Now in its 32nd year, the Cairns Show Wine Awards continues to be a prestigious platform where winemakers from across Australia bring their finest wines to Cairns for our expert judges to taste and evaluate. This event celebrates the diversity, innovation, and craftsmanship of Australia’s wine industry, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the nation’s best wines in the heart of tropical North Queensland.

 

2024: A Year to Remember

The 2024 Cairns Show Wine Awards, held from June 19th to 22nd, was an outstanding success, highlighting the exceptional talent and passion within the industry.

• 316 Wines Judged: Each wine was carefully evaluated by a panel of expert judges, reflecting diverse flavors and meticulous craftsmanship that captivated the senses.
• 72+ Wineries Represented: Leading wineries from across Australia submitted their finest selections, underscoring the Awards’ growing reputation on the national stage.
• 300+ Wine Enthusiasts Attended: The Public Tasting event drew an impressive crowd of over 400 attendees, offering an unforgettable experience of sampling exceptional wines and engaging with the stories behind the bottles.

 

Looking Ahead

Congratulations to all participants and winners for making this event a celebration of viticultural excellence.

We look forward to the 2025 Cairns Show Wine Awards, set for June 11th to 14th, as we continue to honor the art of winemaking in Australia. Stay tuned for more details!

CAIRNS SHOW AUTO SPECTACULAR 2024

 

The Cairns Show Auto Spectacular: A Roaring Success in its Third Year since COVID!

We are thrilled to share the success of the Cairns Show Auto Spectacular, now in its third consecutive year since the easing of restrictions—and what an incredible event it was! Held over two action-packed days, October 12th and 13th, the event brought together automotive enthusiasts, competitors, and spectators for a thrilling celebration of all things automotive.

• Participation: 196 entrants showcased their vehicles and skills across Show & Shine, Go to Whoa, Motorkhana Time Trials, and the DYNO Challenge. 76% were from Cairns, with additional participants from the Tablelands, Townsville, and beyond, highlighting the event’s growing reach.
• Community Engagement: Around 2,000 spectators attended, including adults, concession holders, and families, making it a vibrant community event.
• Awards: 93 trophies were presented, recognizing the incredible talent and dedication of competitors.
• Charity Auction: $7,715 was raised for Sailability Cairns, with President Jeff Crofts expressing heartfelt gratitude for the community’s generosity.

“An utterly unbelievable outcome—we are just all blown away by the fantastic sponsors for the prizes and the unbelievable generosity of the amazing car enthusiast group! This will make an unbelievable difference for us. Huge thanks to... the Cairns Show Association for choosing us and making it all happen!”

 

• Prizes & Giveaways: Lucky attendees won a Luxury Reef Cruise from Passions of Paradise and family vouchers from Giants Pizzeria. Kids enjoyed Goodie Bags and a fun spinning wheel, courtesy of Triple M.
• Refund Competition: Sponsored by AGRO Motorsports, this unique competition gave participants a chance to win back their entry fees, adding excitement to the event.
• Special Guests: Esteemed judges Owen Webb and Rachael Durbridge, along with Chris Kelly from The Never Late Podcast and Gavin Kelso from Cruizn Magazine, added prestige and media coverage.

A huge thank you to our team, volunteers, participants, and sponsors for making this year’s event a standout success. We can’t wait to see you in 2025 for an even bigger celebration of automotive culture!

CAIRNS SHOW AMBASSADORS 2024

 

We are proud to introduce and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional 2024 Cairns Show Ambassadors:

• Rowena Petersen (Cairns Showgirl)
• Sam Cristaudo (Cairns Show Rural Ambassador)
• Grace O’Kane (Cairns Show Young Rural Ambassador).
• Amelia Martin (Cairns Show Young Rural Ambassador Runner-Up)

These outstanding individuals have dedicated their time and energy throughout the year to champion the Cairns Show and the broader Agricultural Industries. Whether leading parades, gracing race days, or representing us at various community events across Far North Queensland, our Ambassadors have truly gone above and beyond to showcase the spirit of the Cairns Show.

Their passion and commitment not only highlight the importance of agriculture in our region but also inspire others to become involved in this vibrant community.

Are you or someone you know passionate about agriculture and the show industry? If you’re considering taking on a leadership role or know a young individual who would make a fantastic ambassador, keep an eye out—applications for the 2025 Cairns Show Ambassador program will be opening soon! Join us in continuing this proud tradition and help make a difference in our community.

Learn More…

CAIRNS SHOW ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS FOR 2025

 

We are delighted to announce and congratulate the newly appointed 2025 Cairns Show Association Committee! This exceptional group of individuals has been chosen to lead and guide our cherished event into another successful year. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to our community are truly inspiring, and we are confident that under their leadership, the Cairns Show will continue to thrive and grow.

Please join us in recognizing and celebrating the following committee members:
Carol Allen, Ian Allen, Margrit Allen, Jan Anderson, Judy Alyce, Bevan Clayton, Raven Cook, Michael Fischer, David Green, Linda Halliwell, Kent Hams, Dean Hoult, Amanda Hunter, Glen Hunter, Ley James, Nathan Lee Long, Glenda McAuliffe, Warren March, Malcolm O’Hara, Rob O’Malley, Michael Pattini, Narelle Phipps, Les Plath, Danny Sale, William (Bill) Smith, Christine Stoddart, Robert Stoddart, Des Tong, Michael Tonion, Louis Underwood and Chris Van Dorssen.

 

Francis (Ley) James Named Honourary Patron

We are proud to announce that Francis (Ley) James has been appointed the Honourary Patron of the Cairns Show Association. Ley’s longstanding dedication and invaluable contributions to our community have been instrumental in the growth and success of the Cairns Show.

EXCITING EVENTS HOSTED AT THE CAIRNS SHOWGROUNDS

 

This year, the Cairns Showgrounds has been a vibrant hub of activity, hosting a wide range of events that brought our community together. From educational initiatives to thrilling expos and entertainment spectacles, here’s a look at some of the standout events:

• School Savvy – Centacare: Providing essential back-to-school supplies and resources to families in need, this initiative ensured that every child in our community was prepared for the school year.
• Markets FNQ: A lively marketplace showcasing the best of Far North Queensland’s local artisans, food vendors, and craftspeople, offering a unique shopping experience for all attendees.
• Cairns Expo: This comprehensive exhibition highlighted the latest in home, outdoor living, and adventure, attracting enthusiasts from across the region.
• Red Hot Summer Tour: A must-attend event for music lovers, featuring iconic Australian rock artists and drawing crowds for a day of unforgettable performances.
• Pure Lightness: Pure Lightness was a captivating market experience, showcasing a stunning array of crystals, gemstones, and metaphysical products. Whether seeking a personal connection or a meaningful gift, Pure Lightness provided an enriching environment for all.
• Fashion Thrift Society: A sustainable fashion event where thrift enthusiasts could discover stylish pre-loved clothing, promoting eco-friendly shopping habits.
• Questacon Science Circus: Engaging minds young and old, this traveling science show brought interactive exhibits and exciting demonstrations to Cairns, sparking curiosity and learning.
• Cairns Swap Meet, Car, Bike & Truck Show: A paradise for automotive enthusiasts, this event featured a diverse range of vehicles and a bustling swap meet for collectors and hobbyists.
• Bird Expo: Hosted by FNQ Bird Breeders, this expo was a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and anyone curious about the vibrant world of aviculture.
• Bull Throttle: This year’s Bull Throttle event brought an electrifying blend of motorsport and rodeo to the Cairns Showgrounds, delivering heart-stopping excitement for fans of all ages.
• BLA Cairns Youth & Careers Expo: Empowering the next generation, this expo connected young people with career opportunities, education pathways, and inspiring industry leaders.
• Your Wardrobe Cairns: A unique event offering a treasure trove of pre-loved clothing and accessories, allowing fashion lovers to refresh their wardrobes sustainably.
• Salvation Carols: The Salvation Army Carols, hosted by Cairns Churches, brought the community together for a heartwarming evening filled with festive cheer, music, and the spirit of giving.
• Calvacade of Lights: The Cavalcade of Lights, hosted by Hit 102.5 (Southern Cross Austereo), kicked off at the Cairns Showgrounds, setting the stage for a magical journey around Cairns to explore the city’s most dazzling Christmas light displays.

These events have not only provided entertainment and education but have also fostered community spirit and engagement. We look forward to welcoming even more exciting activities at the Cairns Showgrounds in the future!

THANK YOU & HOLIDAY WISHES

 

Dear valued Member,

As we come to the end of another fantastic year, we want to take a moment to express our sincere thanks for your ongoing support and dedication as a valued member of the Cairns Show Association. Your involvement and commitment have been vital to the success of our events and initiatives, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you contribute.

Your support means so much to us, and we are proud to have you as part of our community. It has been a pleasure, and we are excited for the continued success we can achieve in the years ahead.

With the holiday season upon us, we’d like to wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a joyful New Year. We hope this time brings you peace, happiness, and moments to cherish.

We look forward to seeing you next year for another great year of the Show!

Kind regards,
Ian Allen

President

Cairns Show Association

Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral, and Mining Association

Annual General Meeting

Dear Valued Members,

We are pleased to announce the upcoming 2024 Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members of the Cairns Show Association. This important event will take place at the De Jarlais Function Centre, Cairns Showgrounds on Friday, November 29th, commencing at 7:00 pm.

Nomination Forms for the Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members are available online (see button below) or in person at the Cairns Show Office, located within the Showgrounds. We encourage you to complete and submit your forms through one of the following methods:

1. Email: reception@cairns-show.com
2. Post: PO Box 811 Bungalow, QLD 4870
3. In person: Visit the Cairns Show Office at the Showgrounds

Please ensure that Nomination Forms reach us no later than Friday, November 22nd, 2024, by 5:00 pm.

To confirm your attendance, kindly RSVP by Friday, November 22nd, 2024, at 5:00 pm. You can do this via telephone at (07) 4042 6699 or through email at reception@cairns-show.com.

We appreciate your continued support, and we look forward to your participation in this significant event.

Sincerely, Ian Allen – President, Cairns Show Association

Membership

Committee Membership Applications due: by 31st January 2026 as per the Articles of Association

Staff / Ambassadors / General Public Membership Applications due: by 10th July 2026.

Forms available:

• In PDF form (above)
• At the Cairns Show Office

Apparel

To ensure all orders arrive prior to the Cairns Show, we request that all Apparel Orders be made by 27th March 2026. We purchase all apparel from Totally Work Wear. 

Dear valued Member,

As 2023 comes to an end, the Cairns Show Association would like to extend a warm thank you for your continued support and contribution. Without our Members, we wouldn’t be able to hold our annual Cairns Show, Cairns Show Wine Awards, or Cairns Show Auto Spectacular events. We take this time to reflect on the year gone by with our Year in Review.

 

Year in Review Contents:

• Cairns Show: Review
• Cairns Show Wine Awards: Review
• Cairns Show Auto Spectacular: Review
• Cairns Showgrounds: Lease & Facility Improvements
• Cairns Show Association: Announcements, Special Mentions & Farewells

 

The Cairns Show Office will be closed from Monday 18th December 2023, and will reopen Tuesday 2nd January 2024 – Have a wonderful festive season!

 

Regards,

Ian Allen – President, Cairns Show Association

Cairns Show

Connecting the City to the Country

The next Cairns Show will be held from the 17th – 19th July 2024!

Australia’s Largest, Regional, Agricultural Show, The Cairns Show, returned for it’s 118th year in 2023, with more smiles, improved attendance, and greater success.

Over the 3 days of the Cairns Show from 19th-21st July, we saw:

• Approximately 65,517 attendees.
• Estimated $30 million return to the Cairns and Far North Queensland Communities.
• Approximately 4500 entries across 32 competition sections. Congratulations to all prize winners, and thank you to all participants! 
• Approximately 210 Exhibitors.
• The Ag-Venture: Taste of Paradise Farm was a State Finalist of the Best Innovation in a Local Event at the Queensland Ag Shows Awards. 
• Feedback was positive, with comments on how well the Show was organised this year. 

We extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated Volunteers, Committee Members, and Staff who invested substantial effort and time to bring the Show to Cairns and its surrounding communities. Additionally, we express appreciation to our valued Sponsors, Partners, and Friends of the Show. Your financial support, in-kind services, and contributions of products were instrumental — our success is indebted to your crucial involvement.

Cairns Show Wine Awards

To examine wine quality and style in the context of a tropical location

Cairns Show Auto Spectacular

Pure Motoring Entertainment

Cairns Showgrounds

Cairns Show Association

Announcing the 2024 CSA Committee

Saying Farewell to the 2023 Ambassadors
To our 2023 Cairns Show Ambassadors, thank you for your passion and commitment.

Join us in wishing Alannah Giuffrida (Showgirl), Heidi Healy (Rural Ambassador), and Maeve Lowe (Young Rural Ambassador) farewell and good luck in their future endeavors!

Applications for the 2024 Cairns Showgirl, Rural Ambassador, and Young Rural Ambassador will open early next year. An announcement will be made in the Edition #1 – 2024 Newsletter, on our social media, and on our website. If you would like to register your interest now, please contact reception@cairns-show.com. 

Be sure to follow the @cairnsshowambassadors on Instagram! 

 

Special Mentions to Friends of the Show

• Join us in thanking Neville (Gundy) Kindelan for his long-service to the Cairns Show! Gundy has stepped down from his position as Dairy Cattle Chief Steward. We thank him for his incredible devotion and contributions.
• We would also like to thank Phil Dempster for his long-service to the Cairns Show Wine Awards! Phil has stepped down from his position as Chief Steward.  We thank Phil for his passion and extensive knowledge.
• Congratulations to Catherine English in her appointment as the NQ Sub Chamber Secretary, we look forward to working closely with Catherine in the coming year. 
• A special mention to Wayne Shepherd for his contribution to the Equestrian High Jump at the Cairns Show! 
• We would also like to thank Warren Giffin and Tully High School for entering the Cattle section at the Cairns Show for more than 20 years! We have enjoyed seeing Tully High compete. 

CSA Membership

Enjoy exclusive member discounts, benefits and deals!

Dear Valued Member,

Media Release Published by the Cairns Regional Council: 25th October 2023

The Cairns Show Association will be offered a 20-year lease at their current location.

Council today endorsed tenure agreements with six community organisations at the Showgrounds and Barlow Park reserves.

In offering the organisations tenure agreements, consideration was given to the proposed development of the site into a Major Events Precinct, as well as the impact of the 2032 Olympics.

As anchor tenant of the future Major Events Precinct, a trustee lease renewal of 20 years will be offered to the Cairns Agricultural Pastoral and Mining Association (Cairns Show Association).

The term will provide the Cairns Show Association with sufficient tenure to secure grant funding to maintain and upgrade facilities.

Cairns Brass Inc, which has been at the site since 1994, will be offered a 10-year trustee lease.

Council will offer a new tenure arrangement of 10 years directly to Cairns BMX Club Inc, which has been subletting from the Cairns Show Association for over 40 years.

Trustee permits of three-years will be offered to Cairns Youth and Recreation Centre Inc, Cairns Meals on Wheels Inc, and Cairns Athletics Inc.

Council officers will also assist The Kennel Club to secure a long-term subleasing arrangement with the Cairns Show Association.

 

Read the original Media Release

CAIRNS AGRICULTURAL, PASTORAL, AND MINING ASSOCIATION

Dear valued Members,

We are pleased to announce the upcoming 2023 Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members of the Cairns Show Association. This important event will take place at the De Jarlais Function Centre, Cairns Showgrounds on Friday, November 24th, commencing at 7:00 pm.

Nomination Forms for the Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members can be obtained from this webpage or in person at the Cairns Show Office within the Showgrounds. You are encouraged to complete and submit these forms through one of the following methods:

1. Email: reception@cairns-show.com
2. Post: PO Box 811 Bungalow, QLD 4870
3. In person: Visit the Cairns Show Office at the Showgrounds

Please ensure that Nomination Forms reach us no later than Friday, November 17th, 2023, by 5:00 pm.

To confirm your attendance, kindly RSVP by Friday, November 17th, 2023, at 5:00 pm. You can do this via telephone at (07) 4042 6699 or through email at reception@cairns-show.com.

We appreciate your continued support, and we look forward to your participation in this significant event.

Sincerely, Ian Allen – President, Cairns Show Association

Cairns Show Wine Awards

To examine wine quality and style in the contact of a tropical location

Judging for the next Cairns Show Wine Awards will be held from 21st – 23rd June 2023, with Public Tasting held on the 24th in the De Jarlais Function Centre.

The 2023 Cairns Show Wine Awards was the 30^th year running.  The Wine Awards consists of 2 days Judging fine wines from our Australian Wineries and an enjoyable Saturday afternoon for the Sponsors and Public to taste the many award winning styles . The Judges of wine at the Annual Cairns Show Wine Awards are mainly wine makers and experienced judges from wine regions across southern Australia. Judging of over 500 wines this year ran over a 2 day period.

The judging is done with the food matching in mind. If you seek a wine to match your planned meal, take a look at the results of the 2023 Wine Award entries www.cairnswineawards.com.au and seek a winning wine to match your dish of food!\

Success in the Cairns Show Wine Awards is a great indicator of the wines that will be enjoyed across the northern half of Australia especially in hot and humid weather.

Cairns Show Auto Spectacular

Pure Motoring Entertainment

The next Cairns Show Auto Spectacular will be held on the 14th & 15th of October 2022.

After 6 years of bad weather events, COVID related restrictions, and other regulations, the Cairns Show Auto Spectacular presented by BIG Electrics finally made its return in 2022. Thankfully, with the help and support of the community, the Auto Spec. Over the 2 days of the Auto Spec from 14th-16th October, we saw:

• 240 Entrants competed in the Show & Shine, Go to Whoa, Motorkhana Time Trials, and DYNO.
• Approximately 5,500 spectators!
• Over 70 category winners! Congratulations to our top competitors, Luke Mitchell (Grand Champion), Rob Wilkins (Top Judged Car of Show), Judith Menso (People’s Choice Award), FNQ MotorSports Club (Best Presented Club Display), and Kevin Couper (Best Presented Individual Display). View the Full Results. 

Cairns Showground Events

External Events on the Grounds
The Cairns Showground is placed among 17 hectares of land, only minutes from the Cairns CBD. Offering a variety of halls, pavilions and outdoor spaces the Cairns Showgrounds versatility ensures that we have the ability to host almost any event on the grounds. From concerts, to weddings, corporate events, special occasions and celebrations, the Cairns Showgrounds is home to some of FNQ’s largest events, including:

• Red Hot Summer Tour
• The Grass is Greener (Cairns)
• Cairns Expo (Home & Lifestyle)
• Skywhales (Cairns Art Gallery for the Cairns Festival)
• BLA Youth & Careers Expo
• Regional Disability Expo
• Craft Alive Expo
• Joy to the World Cairns Community Christmas Carols
• Hit Far North Queensland Cavalcade of Lights

A Tribute to the Man with the “Golden Microphone”

Clive Gordon – 1934-2022

Honourary Historian and Patron of the Cairns Show Association – 2011-2022

If someone wanted to know the name of a jockey, the horse, or how high it jumped, Clive was the man to call. His knowledge was phenomenal!

“Clive used to tell me that he was bottle fed on the Show circuit” – Bluey Forsyth

The Ring Announcer for 30 years, even when he was retired, never missed the Cairns Show. A beloved and well respected Show and Equestrian Patron, Life Member, and Racing Steward, Clive will always be remembered at his second home – the Cairns Showgrounds.