Comeback Ekka set to open on a weekend

RNA chief executive Brendan Christou said as a not for profit, and like many businesses whose revenues have been impacted by COVID-19, the RNA was prudently planning to stage a wonderful show while delivering better efficiencies to fixed costs across grounds.

"All the unique Ekka traditions the public know and love such as our much-loved competitions, animals, food, sideshow alley, kids' carnival, showbags and entertainment will be back while ensuring a cost-effective approach in our comeback year,'' Mr Christou said.

"To that end, the show will open on Saturday (August 7) and close on the following Sunday (August 15) running for nine days instead of 10.

"It would maintain two full weekends and the Ekka public holiday and will save the RNA significant operational costs."

Mr Christou said the Brisbane Showgrounds regeneration project had changed the footprint of the Ekka grounds for the better and was able to handle the expected crowds of 400,000 over nine days.

"It will also reduce time spent on site for our competition exhibitors, many of whom take either annual or unpaid leave to attend the show,'' he said.

"Some of our major competitions will also be featured in new locations, as we look to maintain and expand the growth and reach of our traditions, particularly in the digital age."

RNA president David Thomas said the RNA was committed to delivering those traditional and unique Ekka experiences that the public and competition exhibitors come back for year after year.

"We will continue to work closely with Queensland Health on staging next year's show in line with their recommendations,'' Justice Thomas said.

"Our wonderful agricultural traditions will once again be at the forefront of the Ekka paying tribute to our hard-working farming families and bush communities.

"After a very challenging 2020, we look forward to the people of Queensland coming back together again to celebrate our great state."