When you think of the Ekka, we often think of rides and showbags, sideshow alley and Dagwood Dogs. Yet the Ekka is at heart an agricultural show, showcasing around 10,000 beautiful animals each year.
Seeing the animals at the Ekka is a highlight for any child or adult. From the cute and cuddly baby farmyard animals, to the majestic thoroughbred show horses, the Royal Queensland Show is an animal-lovers paradise!
At the Ekka you can pet a lamb, watch a baby chick hatch from an egg, feed a calf, or even milk a cow. There are cats and dogs, fish and poultry, and fine prize cows on display. Plus, with hands-on experiences, animal exhibits, shows and competitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Ekka.
There are so many animals to see at this yearโs Royal Queensland Show weโve put together this guide. It will show you where to find all the Ekka animals to make sure you donโt miss out on meeting any furry or feathered friends!
Animal Boulevard
The first stop for seeing animals at the Ekka is the Animal Boulevard, which is a row of separate pavilions that feature all sorts of animals and exhibits.
There is the Dog Pavilion, Norco Milking Barn, and the Animal Nursery. In this area, you can get up close and personal with hundreds of animals, see demonstrations of traditional farm and bush skills, and enjoy the range of interesting interactive displays.
Dog Pavilion and Judging
In the Dog Pavilion, you can see cute puppies as well as adult dogs of different breeds; all waiting to be judged in the Canine Competition. You’ll find utility dogs, gundogs, non-sporting dogs, hound dogs, working dogs and the uber cute toy dogs.
For more doggy fun, head to the rings to see the handlers showing their dogs performance, as well as agility, dances with dogs, rally obedience and jumping.
Norco Milking Barn
Head to the Norco Milking Barn to see the wonderful dairy cows and have your chance to milk a cow! There are also butter and cream-making demonstrations throughout the day. You can even score a free sample of Norco milk.
Animal Nursery
The Animal Nursery is a must-visit attraction at the Ekka. Home to hundreds of cute and cuddly baby farmyard animals, it is a firm family favourite.
At the Animal Nursery, you can meet:
- Goats and kids
- Calves
- Guinea pigs
- Ducklings
- Chicks
- Rabbits
Bigger animals are also on hand, waiting to meet visitors and include the adorable highland cows, llamas, alpacas, and donkeys.
Poultry Pavilion
At the Poultry Pavilion, you can see all sorts of feathered friends on display, with poultry and pigeons, as well as a colourful mix of birds, including canaries, quails and doves.
For an extra special hands-on activity why not take part in ‘cradle-a-chick’ where you can very carefully cradle a fluffy chick in the palm of your hand.
Cat Precinct
There will be a large variety of cats and kittens on display at this yearโs Ekka including longhair, shorthairs and kittens. Competition will be fierce, but the cutest of all can be found in the popular Kitten Show.
Fish
You can also see a whole array of fish on display, from common varieties to tropical fish, to crustaceans and amphibians. Aquarium enthusiasts will have their goldfish, fighting fish, exotic tropical and freshwater fish on display as well as crustaceans, amphibians and even aquatic plants.
Animal Events
The huge variety of horse events at the Royal Queensland Show are always popular with visitors, and include everything from showjumping, to the horsing around show, and more.
You can also watch the sheepdog trials and see the stunning cattle being paraded, judged and displayed in the main arena.
As part of this year’s EkkaNITES program visitors can watch ‘A Brumby’s Run‘ featuring renowned horseman Dave Manchon.’ It’s guaranteed to be something special.
Sheep shearing demonstrations will give you an insight into how sheep get a hair cut, how their wool is graded and get a glimpse into the hard work that goes into shearing sheep. You may even get chosen to help out!
For something a little different head over to King Street to the Venomous snake and reptile show where you can see slithery pythons, curious lizards and even a baby crocodile. Get hands-on, snap a pic in the photo booth and learn vital first aid information on how to manage snake bites.
Want to rest and relax (kinda)? Then why not try a spot of Goat Yoga at Stockman’s Rest, where you are invited to pose, relax and observe the gorgeous baby goats as you attempt yoga.
Animal Safety at the Ekka
Please remind children to always treat animals with care, respect and caution. Here are some top tips:
- Avoid quick, sudden movements around animals
- Do not kiss animals or hold them close to your mouth
- Do not take food and drinks, especially open packets of food, near animals
- Always be gently when patting animals
- Wash hands before and after touching animals
- Don’t stand or walk behind animals, especially the larger animals
For more information about all the awesome animals on show at the Ekka, please visithttps://www.ekka.com.au/
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