About Us

Queensland Ag Shows

QCAS, known as Queensland Ag Shows, is a peak body for the Agricultural Show Societies in Queensland. We were set up with the aim to promote and protect the general interests of Show Societies so they can continue to put on safe events and increase community wellbeing. Today we offer a range of services, competitions, education and information to help Show Societies run thriving, well-resourced and well-governed Agricultural Shows.

About Agricultural Shows

Agricultural shows have played a leading role in the development of agriculture and communities since the first show was conducted in 1822 in Hobart. They are one of the oldest continuous events in post-colonial Australian society and are still popular in every state and territory with around 587 shows run annually in Australia.
 
In Queensland there are 127 Agricultural Show Societies run by more than 13,500 volunteers. They provide small local events with community populations of 300 or less, to large multi-day events such as the Ekka which attracts over 400,000 visitors every year. On average though, the shows are small to medium sized which are run by volunteers who govern their independent associations known as Show Societies.
 
Across Queensland the popularity of shows remains high as they continue to record 1.3 million visitors every year. 

Agricultural Show Societies

Volunteers

Annual Ekka visitors

Annual visitors state-wide

Social & Economic Benefits

Agricultural Shows have become multifaceted community events displaying a lively mix of competitions and demonstrations; displays of farming and commercial goods; arts and crafts; educational information; entertainment, sideshows and amusement rides.

Research has found that the social and economic benefits for Australia are significant, with at least $9.6 million dollars of economic benefits and a significant amount of social benefits due to volunteerism and the educational, competitive and cultural experiences they provide. The economic and social benefits are evident that the industry should continue to be supported and promoted.