Community & Business
4 February, 2026
High bar set for Stanthorpe Show
Record crowds at Stanthorpe Show
The 150th Stanthorpe Agricultural Show, the first of the circuit, hasn't left anyone disappointed with record crowds and more fun than anyone could poke-a-stick-at.
Southern Downs Regional Mayor, Cr Melissa Hamilton was front-row-centre with many of the activities on offer, telling locals she was "delighted" to be there and praising the efforts of the army of volunteers who continue to set a high-bar for others to follow.
"150 years is an amazing achievement for the Stanthorpe Show Society, and the Show this year was bigger and better than ever before," she told us, having made her way to the gingerbread house decorating competition and later lunching with David Littleproud MP, Minister Ann Leahy and James Lister MP.
Local Councillor Joel Richters also took time to praise what he experienced, telling us he enjoyed Shannon's Chips (who couldn't?) but no fairy floss as he's a good reason to bypass it. "When I was about eight, I went to a Speedway and pu the fairy floss down.... eating it in the car on the way home but not realising it was filled with green ants," Cr Richters jovially recalled. "Now I can't do fairy floss."
What he can and did do, was attend and celebrate "one of the Granite Belt’s longest-standing and most loved traditions". “Reaching 150 years is an incredible milestone,” he said. “This show reflects the heart of our region — our farmers, our families, our volunteers, and the strong community spirit that defines the Southern Downs local government area.”
Cr Richters was struck by the connection of country shows such as what was seen on the weekend, saying that "a century-and-a-half later, that purpose remains just as relevant".
"From cattle and horse events to pavilion displays, local produce, and family entertainment, the Stanthorpe Show continues to highlight the strength and diversity of the Granite Belt’s agricultural industry while providing a major community event on the region’s calendar," he said, reiterating Mayor Hamilton's praise of volunteers.
“This weekend wasn’t just about celebrating the past - it was about seeing the next generation getting involved and making sure this great local tradition continues well into the future," he said, also telling us he recalled the 2019 show when "the efforts that people went to, to make the show happen, was great, even in drought-times".
So while the "taste of green ants" might live long in his memory, Cr Richters won't allow that to deter attending the other three upcoming shows, the enjoyment of which we know too well.
"If the others are as well supported (as Stanthorpe's), it'll be a cracking year ahead," he said.
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