Summer 2010 - the RNA

CONTENTS24 hour rail plannedfor RNA Showgrounds 3From hip hop to metalmusic fests ready to rock 4Ekka wrap 5Cream of the crop, on the huntfor the best show cooks 6Ken crowned legend status 8Internships offer great experience 9Best of the best 10Royal Queensland Food andWine Show 12Event CalendarWhat’s Coming Up… 14RNA Showgrounds regenerationgets ULDA green light 15MESSAGEFROM THE PRESIDENTIn my first year as RNA President, it made me feel so proud of the Ekka to see somany happy families and patrons at this year’s show who were either participatingin competitions or working to bring our great traditions to the 400,000 pluspeople who came through the gates this year. It was such a rewarding experiencefor the RNA Councillors, stewards and staff who work so hard to producethe wonderful mix of education, competition and fun which epitomises ourgreat annual event. Our attendance figures for the Ekka this year were excellentand contributed to a financially successful event. The RNA greatly values theinvolvement of our numerous loyal sponsors and appreciates their interactionwith show goers over the 10 days of Ekka.The $2.9 billion RNA Showgrounds regeneration continues to move a step closer toconstruction of stage one which will aid us in planning next year’s Ekka and fi nalisingarrangements for other major events held annually on grounds. The regenerationof the RNA Showgrounds is a very exciting time in the Ekka’s history and ournumber one priority will always be to maintain a traditional show at the heart of thedevelopment which will ensure our future.It has been a year of abundant rain for our rural members—very welcome after yearsof drought, although there have been some very disappointing harvest stories of goodcrops ruined by too much rain. The support of our livestock exhibitors throughout thebad years has been outstanding.As reported on page 3 I recentlyrepresented the RNA at the 24thRoyal Agricultural Societies of theCommonwealth Conference inScotland. This was an excellent eventand the RNA was successful in its bid tohost the 2014 conference to be held inconjunction with that year’s Ekka.“ The regenerationof the RNAShowgrounds is a veryexciting time in theEkka’s history”In the last two years the RNA, togetherwith our regeneration partner LendLease, have worked alongside manypeople from Government, the ULDA,legal fi rms, accountancy, design and many more to develop our future. So many havecontributed with such enthusiasm and have been so positive and supportive of whatwe are working towards and I thank them all for this. Our grateful thanks goes to themembers of the RNA who continue to support this organisation and I wish you andyour families a very happy Christmas and good health and prosperity in the New Year.Allan Warby OAMRNA PresidentCover picture: The most popular attraction at the 2010 Royal Queensland Show was the RACQInsurance Animal Nursery. More than 130,000 people visited the venue which housed more than400 baby animals. Children were able to hand feed, pat and play with the animals in an interactivelearning environment. The nursery is renowned as arguably the best of its kind in the nation.2Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

Conceptual image of the proposed new EkkaStation to offer year round access to theRNA Showgrounds.BRISBANE TO HOSTRASC CONFERENCE24 HOUR RAIL PLANNEDFOR RNA SHOWGROUNDSThe public will be able to travel by trainto events at the RNA Showgroundsall year round, following the release ofthe planned Cross River Rail projectreference design.The $8 billion project involves aproposed 18 kilometre inner city northsouthrail line incorporating a 9.8 kmunderground tunnel from Yeerongpilly,under the Brisbane River to Bowen Hills.Four new underground train stations areplanned at Roma Street, Albert Street,The Gabba and Boggo Road plus newsurface stations for the RNA’s ExhibitionStation and Yeerongpilly.Queensland Transport Minister RachelNolan and Member for Brisbane GraceGrace joined RNA Chief ExecutiveJonathan Tunny at a special pressconference which also unveiled plansfor Exhibition Station to be renamed asEkka Station and Woolloongabba as theGabba Station.Ms Nolan said the new Ekka Station,proposed to be located on O’ConnellTerrace, would assist with the renewalof the entire Bowen Hills UrbanDevelopment Area, including theshowground precinct and also helptransform the way people travel to RNAevents and the nearby Royal Brisbaneand Women’s Hospital.“Ekka Station will go from operating twoweeks a year during the show to a fullyoperational year round station,’’ she said.“The Ekka and Gabba are Australianicons and the Cross River Rail willdirectly link the two.“These stations will be permanentnew additions to our transport networkwith thousands of people a day usingthem to work and attend sporting andother events.”Mr Tunny said the Cross River RailProject will play an important role in theregeneration of the RNA Showgroundsby providing a 24 hour railway station forfuture generations to access.“The RNA is committed to regeneratingthis site so the people of Brisbane cancome and enjoy world class facilities andentertainment not just during the Ekkabut all year round.“It’s essential the people of Brisbane canaccess and utilise this great venue allyear round.“Imagine jumping on board at AlbertStreet in the city and being at the RNAShowgrounds in just two minutes – it’sa wonderful coup for this vibrant andexciting part of the inner city.”The planning stage of the CrossRiver Rail project is scheduled tobe completed by mid next year,construction on the project aims to beunderway by 2013 with constructioncompleted by 2016.More details can be found atwww.crossriverrail.qld.gov.auAT A GLANCEProposed renaming to Ekka StationLocated on O’Connell TerraceOperating 365 days a year2 minute trip from CBD to RNAShowgroundsProposed construction 2013 – 2016The RNA has beaten Melbourne andNorfolk in England in its bid to hostthe prestigious 26th CommonwealthAgricultural Conference in 2014, duringthe beloved Royal Queensland Show.The decision was announced in Edinburghrecently by the Royal Agricultural Societyof the Commonwealth (RASC) during its24th biennial conference attended by180 delegates from 21 countries.RNA President Allan Warby was inattendance at the conference in Scotlandand said it was an honour for the RNAand Brisbane to be selected to host thisinternational event.“Brisbane won the bid over Norfolk, theoriginal city where the RASC was formedin 1957, so the decision is even morerewarding.“The conference will bring delegates from theconfederation of 48 show societies across 21countries and represents a terrifi c opportunityto showcase Brisbane, SoutheastQueensland, the Royal Queensland Showand our agricultural industry.’’As well as seeing the attractions ofBrisbane City and surrounds, delegateswill visit some of Queensland’s leadingagricultural industries.The RASC was founded in 1957 by HRHthe Duke of Edinburgh KG KT, and12 international Agricultural Societies atthe Royal Norfolk Show.The initial aim was to promote the workof societies by providing a network andforum for discussion of the latest ideasand experiences.The conferences also feature farmingtours which provide a unique opportunityto learn from the host country about theworld’s different farming systems and ruralstructures plus building long standingfriendships across the Commonwealth.The 26th Commonwealth AgriculturalConference will be held in Brisbane in2014 during the Ekka which commencesthat year on August 7.Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 3

FROM HIP HOP TO METALMUSIC FESTSREADY TO ROCKBaseball has returned to the RNAShowgrounds with the reformedBrisbane Bandits kicking off its 20game home season on the iconic mainarena in early November.A crowd of 1500 fl ocked to the Banditsopening game against Perth, with thecurrent season running until the end ofJanuary 2011.American hip hop superstar SnoopDogg and English heavy metal rockersIron Maiden will headline two of fivemajor music festivals to be held at theRNA Showgrounds over the nextfour months.Iron Maiden will perform at Soundwavethis February, which is expected to attracta crowd of 45,000 on the main arena;while Snoop Dogg will headline Supafestthis April.The RNA Showgrounds is fast becomingknown as one of the nation’s pre-eminentlive music destinations offering facilitieswhich easily cater for concerts and musicof all tastes and sizes.Soundwave 2011 is set to return thisFebruary and features one of the mostimpressive heavy metal line-ups in history.Headline acts include Iron Maiden,Queens of the Stone Age, Slayer, Primus,Rob Zombie and Pennywise plus dozensof other bands who will perform acrossfi ve stages during the 11 hour festival.About 20,000 people are expectedto attend Supafest 2011, which willfeature international hip hop acts yet tobe announced.This month (December) the showgroundswill play host to Stereosonic, a majordance music festival expected to draw acrowd of 25,000, while No Sleep Til willattract about 10,000 metal and punk fans.Already 8,500 tickets have been sold toalternative indie street festival Lanewaywhich will be held this February.Nearly 90,000 have attended major musicfestivals at the RNA Showgrounds thisyear alone.For more information go towww.rnashowgrounds.com.auTHE BIG FIVEMusic festivals2010Stereosonic – Dec 5No Sleep Til – Dec 192011Laneway – Feb 4Soundwave – Feb 26Supafest – April 16.THE BIG ACTSOasis – Livid 2002Green Day – Livid 2000The Cure – Livid 2000Iron Maiden – Soundwave 2011Faith No More – Soundwave 2010These are the biggest acts to haveperformed at the RNA Showgrounds.They have sold 80 million albums worldwideand now English heavy metal rockers IronMaiden are set to headline the hugely popularSoundwave festival at the RNA Showgroundsthis February.The Bandits last played at theshowgrounds in the early 90s andform part of the relaunched AustralianBaseball League which involve interstateteams and is backed by the UnitedStates-based Major League Baseball.RNA Chief Executive Jonathan Tunnysaid RNA is using $120,000 in StateGovernment funding to do restorationworks on the John MacDonald Stand tomake it more comfortable for spectators.“The Bandits calling the RNAShowgrounds home represents anotherproud milestone in the rich history of thisiconic venue,’’ he said.“For decades this arena has played hostto countless rugby league and union testmatches and it’s great to see anothersport get the chance to share in the richheritage this arena has to offer.’’The Queensland Government hasprovided a total of $300,000 in fundingto install a baseball diamond on the mainarena and help with restoration works.FIELD OFDREAMS4Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

Ekka WRAPWHAT A SHOW!Ekka proves a hitThe 2010 Royal Queensland Show didn’t just live up to expectations, it exceededthem and proved one of the most successful in the RNA’s history.From a 20 per cent increase in crowdnumbers, to the huge media contingentfollowing the every move of PrimeMinister Julia Gillard and OppositionLeader Tony Abbott to Mark Latham’snow famous election “ambush”– the2010 Ekka had it all and proved arecord breaker.For nine of the 10 days of showsunshine and blue skies prevailed anddrew more than 400,000 people throughthe gates to enjoy the traditions, fun,competitions, food and entertainmenton offer.With increased crowd numbers on lastyear, Queenslanders thoroughly enjoyedall the wacky, the wonderful, the thrills,the glamour, the delicious treats and thestrong spirit of competition.“From new dining options, to theaction packed night-time program, toan excellent music and entertainmentline-up, to the thousands of animals andcompetitions, it was a privilege to stagethis year’s show.“We had show bags sell-out, more than100 lambs born, 185,000 dagwooddogs and 145,000 strawberry sundaessold – all part of what continues to bringpeople back year after year.”Mr Warby said the Ekka wasfundamentally the people’s show and itwas the efforts of hundreds of dedicatedexhibitors, carnival operators, sponsors,judges, stewards, competitors,volunteers and staff which make itQueensland’s most loved eventeach year.The 2010 Ekka occurred in the midst of thefederal election and proved the ideal campaignground for politicians from all parties. The RNAwas thrilled to host visits from the Prime Ministerand Federal Opposition leader and their respectivemedia contingents. (From left) RNA Chief ExecutiveJonathan Tunny, the Prime Minister of AustraliaJulia Gillard, Ms Gillard’s partner Tim Mathiesonand RNA President Allan Warby.RNA President Allan Warby hailed theevent a terrifi c success.“Ekka patrons created a happyatmosphere throughout theshowgrounds as they enjoyed themultitude of attractions on offer,’’he said.“We have been thrilled with the quality,craftsmanship, skill and talent of ourcompetition entrants and recognisedand awarded the champions,’’he said.“We look forward to next year’s showwith planning already underway.”Federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott and hiswife Margie presented sashes, enjoyed lunchat the famous Stockman’s Bar and visited thewoodchop and dairy cattle pavilions during the2010 Ekka.Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 5

Ekka WRAPCREAM OF THE CROP,ON THE HUNT FOR THE BEST SHOW COOKS.Entrants in the popular cookerysections at the Ekka faced scrutinyfrom more than the judges whenthey brought in their entries this year.Watching every step of the way wasbest-selling author Liz Harfull who wasin Brisbane as part of her nation-widesearch for Australia’s best show cooks.Liz plans to feature the cooks and theirprize-winning recipes in a follow-up toher award-winning fi rst book, The BlueRibbon Cookbook, which focussed onshows and show cooks in her homestate of South Australia.Now in its fourth print run with morethan a few copies fi nding homes inQueensland, the book has proven to bea surprise hit for Wakefi eld Press sinceit was published two years ago, comingrunner-up in the Gourmand WorldCookbook Awards announced in Parislast year.“That was a very special moment,”Liz said. “Like many farm kids of mygeneration I grew up with the typeof cooking exemplifi ed by showcompetitions, and took it for granted. Ilearnt to make scones and cakes andjam at an early age, helping Mum inthe kitchen, and I grew up going toshows which are a highlight in thecalendar year for so many people incountry areas.“I felt truly privileged to be able to sharethose traditions with the wider world inParis, and to have the skills of peoplelike my Mother recognised on the worldstage. Despite the fact that most showcooks are very competitive, they are alsovery humble and really don’t see whatthey do as anything special.“But it takes more than a good recipe tobe able to make this type of food, andI am pretty passionate about capturingthe generational knowledge involvedbefore it is lost.”Liz found plenty to inspire her at the Ekka.She was on hand to watch more than 750cookery entries come in to the Fine Artsbuilding for judging, meeting many of thecooks as they delivered dozens of scones,cakes, biscuits and breads, and countlessbottles of jams, sauces and pickles.“I was particularly impressed by thenumber of men who enter the cookeryclasses at the Ekka, and take home somany of the prizes. Many people assumemost show cooks are older women,and have to be members of the CountryWomen’s Association, but that is defi nitelynot the case and I am keen to break thestereotype image,” she said.Among the local ‘stars’ she interviewedwere retired dairy farmer Geoff Beattiefrom Glamorganvale, who was the mostsuccessful exhibitor in both the openfruit cakes and puddings section, andpreserves; and former Federal Minister inthe Fraser Government, Tom McVeigh,who took home fi rst prizes for his breadand fruit buns.Blue Ribbon Cookbook authorLiz Harfull picks two recipesfrom her award winning book toshare with readers.Cumquat MarmaladeRecipe1 kg cumquats, sliced fi nely and seedsremoved600 ml water2.5 kg sugarPut the cumquats and water in a largesaucepan and cook slowly, with the lidon, stirring occasionally, until you have athick pulp and the fruit is soft.Remove the pan from the heat, andstir in the sugar until it is completelydissolved. Return the pan to the heat.Boil rapidly, with the lid removed, stirringconstantly until setting point is reached(about 15 minutes).Skim any froth off the top with a bigspoon. Using a cup, pour the marmaladeinto warm sterilised jars, fi lling them to thebrim, and put the lids on.Tips from the cook• It’s easier to make smaller lots ofmarmalade than one large amount,although you can double this recipewithout affecting the quality.• Slicing the fruit fi nely makes it easy tofi nd the seeds.• It is important that the fruit is softbefore you add the sugar.• Warm the sugar gently in a veryslow oven so it doesn’t drop thetemperature of the fruit when it’sadded, and it dissolves more quickly.• Once you have added the sugar,don’t let the jam re-boil until the sugaris completely dissolved.• When it is boiling fast, the marmalademay splatter so make sure your armsare protected. Lil puts sheets ofnewspaper around the stove and onthe fl oor to make cleaning up easier.• To fi nd out whether the jam is set,place a few drops onto a cold saucer.Let it cool for a few moments andthen push it gently with your fi nger.If wrinkles form, the jam is ready. Liltends to put four separate blobs ofjam onto the saucer so she can test itseveral times to make sure.• Wash the jars and heat them on atray in the oven. Use cotton gardengloves to handle the hot jars whenyou are fi lling them with marmalade.Cumquat Marmalade6Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

Blue Ribbon Cookbook author Liz Harfullcame in search of the best show cooks at the2010 Royal Queensland Show.She also spent time chatting to quietachiever, Marilyn Barber, from Lowood,a prolifi c cook who took out the mostsuccessful exhibitor trophy for cakes,biscuits and scones; and country showstalwart Edna O’Neill from Murgon,whose preparations were closelyfollowed by a camera crew from ABCLandline, for a story about show cookingwhich aired in September.Armed with camera and notebook, Lizwatched the judging unfold, picking uptips and hints from Shirley Elsden, whohas been judging and training showjudges for some 40 years. She wasparticularly keen to fi nd out what wasinvolved in making the perfect pumpkinscone, a Queensland ‘institution’ inshow cooking, and a recipe for peachblossom cake, which she had not comeacross in southern states.And she was impressed by the team ofvolunteers, led by Fine Arts Councillor inCharge, Susan Hennessey, who workedfor days to accept the entries, set themout for judging, organise the mountainof paperwork that goes with the judgingprocess, and then carefully arrange thedisplay stands ready for the fi rst day ofthe show.Liz has put out a call to Queensland’scountry shows to nominate cooks andrecipes for the book, with help from theQueensland Chamber of AgriculturalSocieties. She is also approaching showsin other States, after a busy spring visitingevents in Tasmania, WA and Victoria.Liz expects to fi nish writing the book bythe end of 2011.“There is something like 660 shows stillrunning in Australia, so it’s an enormoustask,” she says.For more information visitwww.blueribboncookbook.com.auThe Blue Ribbon Cookbook came runner-up in theGourmand World Cook Book Awards announcedin Paris last year. It is available from most majorbookshops or online from Wakefi eld Press:www.wakefi eldpress.com.auJubilee CakeRecipe65 g butter250 g SR fl our2 dessertspoons castor sugarpinch of salt1⁄2 cup sultanas1⁄2 cup currants1 dessertspoon lemon peel1 egg, beatenmilkIcing1⁄2 cup icing sugarcream (enough to moisten)waterdesiccated coconutPreheat the oven to moderate (180 ºC ina conventional electric oven).Grease and line a 23 cm by 8 cm log pan.Rub the butter into the fl our, sugarand salt until the mixture resemblesfi ne breadcrumbs. Add the sultanas,currants, lemon peel and stir through thefl our mixture.Beat the egg in a measuring cup andthen top the cup up with milk. Add tothe fl our mixture and mix until combined,forming a fairly stiff mixture.Spoon it evenly into the prepared panand bake for 35 minutes, or until golden.Remove the cake from the pan andplace it on a board to cool. While it is stillwarm, pour the icing over the cake soit drizzles down the sides. Finish with alight sprinkling of coconut.IcingBeat together the icing sugar and justenough cream to moisten it. Then addenough water to make a slightly runnyconsistency.Tips from the cook• Use a food processor to ‘crumb’ thefl our, sugar and butter.• Dot always adds a pinch of salt to hercakes to ‘bring out the fl avour’.• Coating the fruit in the fl our mixturebefore adding any liquid helpsdistribute the fruit more evenly andstops it from sinking.• The top of the cake has to be quiterough so don’t smooth it out once youhave worked the mixture into the pan.• Mixing the icing with cream stops itfrom lifting off the cake.Jubilee CakeShowbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 7

Ekka WRAPKEN CROWNEDLEGEND STATUSHe is already a respected veteran of theQueensland beef industry and now heis an Ekka legend as well.Butcher, State Meat Inspector and RoyalQueensland Show Honorary CouncilSteward, Ken Crotty was awardedthe 2010 RNA Show Legend Award,recognising his involvement and passionfor the show.Presented each year at the RoyalQueensland Show President’sReception, this prestigious awardacknowledges a person who has madea signifi cant contribution to both theRNA and Ekka.RNA President Allan Warby said Kenwas undoubtedly a Show Legend ofthe highest degree and this awardacknowledged his unwaveringdedication and effort that hadcontributed to the success of the Ekka.“Ken’s expertise in the beef industrycombined with his outstanding dedicationto the show has not gone unnoticed andwe are thrilled to honour him and hisefforts with this award,” he said.“Ken is not only highly respected inthe beef cattle section but also by theexhibitors where he has utilised hisexperience and knowledge to mentorother stewards.“He is a great team player and hascreated a great rapport with the RNAand the beef companies we deal withregularly.”A butcher by trade, Ken fi rst came tothe Ekka in 1939 – years before hecommenced stewarding for beef cattlein 1968 and becoming an honorarycouncil steward in 1981, a positionhe still holds.RNA President Allan Warby (right) crownedHonorary Council Steward Ken Crotty the2010 Ekka legend during the show.After beginning his apprenticeship asa butcher in 1946 as a 14 year-old,Ken spent 17 years in the trade beforestudying to become a State MeatInspector. He has continued in that rolefor 42 years, since 1964.His involvement with the RNA and theEkka spans over four decades and at77 years of age he has no intention ofstopping any time soon.2010Ekka FUNFACTSMore than 70 per cent of the showgroundswas dedicated to free activities.In the Sunny Queen Little Miracles Newborn Corner, 100 Ekkaewes gave birth to their little lambs including seven sets of twins.13,000 schoolchildren participated in the EkkaLearning Trail compared to 9,000 in 2009.2,282 bales of hay were sold at theRNA Hay Store.The Ekka offered visitors more than 3000 free thingsAll 120 chickens hatched from their eggs.to do and see over the 10 days of show.6,875 Wagyu plates eaten.Dagwood dogs are still a traditional show17,000 Coon Cheese Toasties were eaten. favourite with 183,000 sales.8Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

GoodFoodGuideFinal2.indd 130/07/10 4:32 PMEach year the RNA offers university students thechance to apply for several public relations internships.If successful the students work with the RNACommunications team to promote Queensland’sbiggest annual event – The Ekka. These internshipsprovide a unique opportunity for students to gaininvaluable experience and insight. This year Universityof Queensland graduate Katherine Johnston was oneof three chosen and she outlines her experience below.INTERNSHIPSOFFER GREATEXPERIENCEBy Katherine JohnstonRNA Communications internAs most uni students know, workexperience is crucial to setting yourselfapart in the search for a job aftergraduation. In July 2010, I was thrilled tobe offered an internship with the RNA,working as part of the communicationsteam for the Ekka.I wasn’t sure what to expect when Istarted this internship. I assumed itwould be like previous internships whereyou sat fi ling and answering phones allday. I was immediately proven wrong.When I took the internship at the RNA,everything started to click. All thoselong hours at uni, writing PR plans,making sure key messages were in eachpiece of communication, and coming upwith responses to fi ctional crises werepaying off.I realised what an amazing, exciting,and very challenging industrycommunications can be, and how muchI want to be a part of it.Although every day provided incredibleexperiences there were defi nitely a fewstandouts. When my friends asked me‘how was the Ekka?’ my fi rst responsewas always ‘great – I shook handswith the Prime Minister and served theOpposition Leader a beer’.It was amazing to see how the mediaresponded to these people, and how afew seconds of coverage makes newson every TV channel for days – like whenMark Latham ‘bumped into’ Julia Gillard.Then there was the gloomy, rainy, butfun day that I got to run around theentire showgrounds with Ben Teo, 5 yearold triplets, and The Footy Show crewfi lming for that weeks show.There was also less ‘wow’ moments, likehaving one of my stories appear on thenews, which really taught me a lot aboutmyself and the public relations industry.I learnt valuable skills and knowledgethat I wouldn’t have gained withoutthis two month placement at the RNA.Although we’ve been told since we weretoddlers ‘there’s no such thing as a sillyquestion’, you always feel as thoughthere is, however this experience reallytaught me to ask questions.If you are unsure of something or simplywant to know more, ask someone.Internships are all about immersingyourself in as much as you possibly can.I learnt how to speak to someone whois upset with your service, learnt whento respond (if at all) to an issue, anddeveloped a deeper understandingof how the media operates simply bywatching and listening to everyone thatwas around me.My internship at the RNA provided mewith invaluable skills, and a whole lotof fun.BEST EXPERIENCESMeeting the PM and Opposition LeaderFilming with the Ch 9 Footy ShowHaving my story appear ontelevision newsWHAT I LEARNT THE MOSTHow the media operatesImmerse yourself in the experienceHow to deal with potentially damagingissuesTrust yourselfGOURMET FOODPROVES A TREATThis year the RNA was determinedto provide a smorgasbord of culinarydelights at the Ekka following the resultsof special research which revealed thepublic wanted better food options.To highlight this exciting initiative, theRNA, together with the Sunday Mail,published the very fi rst ‘Great FoodGuide’ which proved a hit with visitors.The guide outlined eight differentcategories – Premium Coffee, Alfresco andRestaurant Dining, Fresh and Juicy, Let’sGet Cooking, Delicious Treats, Fine Bites,Royal Queensland Deli and Wine Tasting.Each category featured aselection of outlets whichcorresponded with a mapso visitors could maketheir way around a trail ofgourmet treasures.200,000 copies of theguide were printed andsnapped up by foodieseager to explore the newfood options.The Sunday MailGreat FoodGuide5-14 AugustOne of the most popular new gourmetvenues was the RNA’s Gourmet Harvestprecinct, which offered restaurant qualityfood at affordable prices and includedrenowned chef Jason Peppler and hislocal restaurant Confi t Bistro. Anotherwell known Brisbane eatery Brett’s Wharfoffered more fi ne dining options whilethe new Seafood and Wine Bar alsoproved popular.There was more than 80 food and winevendors operating during the 2010 Ekkaand the RNA remains committed toproviding quality food options each year.GREAT FOOD FACTS2010 Ekka offered:50% more healthy food options50% more gourmet food options40% more coffee vendors80 plus food and wine vendorsThe Sunday Mail ‘Great Food Guide’Top Brisbane chefs Jason Pepplerand Alastair McLeodNew Gourmet Harvest Dining PrecinctNew Seafood and Wine BarNew $15 & $20 Royal QueenslandDeli bagsShowbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 9

Ekka WRAPBEST OF THE BESTThe 2010 Ekka attracted more than 23,000 entries across 48,000 classes in 52 competition categories. The RNA pays tribute tothe following 2010 Royal Queensland Show and Royal Queensland Food and Wine Show champions for achieving excellence.2010 Royal QueenslandShow ChampionsSTUD BEEFChampion of Champions Breed PairCharolaisBull – Advance Domino D36 –S B Hayward, Allora QLDCow or Heifer – Palgrove Refi ne 136 –Ascot Charolais, East Greenmount QLDInterbreed Champion Small BreedsBull – TANVIEW DJ (Australian Lowline)– K R & T L Falkenhagen, Croftby ViaBoonah QLDCow or Heifer – Kobblevale Skye(Australian Lowline) – KobblevaleEnterprises, Jandowae QLDPRIME BEEFGrand Champion PenCharolais – I B Price, Yuleba QLDLED STEERGrand Champion Led SteerChampion Mediumweight Led Steer –Pittsworth S H S, Pittsworth QLDGrand Champion Led Steer CarcaseChampion Lightweight Carcase – 4Ways Charolais, Black Mountain NSWTHOROUGHBREDSSupreme Champion ThoroughbredChampion Mare – Great Northern –J McMillan & V Corvi, Noosa Heads QLDSTUD HORSESSupreme Champion AustralianStockhorseChampion Mare – Secret DownsBonnies Secret – K Bryan & K Nicoll,Nindooinbah QLDSupreme Champion ClydesdaleChampion Mare – Duncan Valley Tiffi ny –Goodall Family, Goombungee QLDSupreme Champion Riding PonyChampion Mare – Rathowen ScarletRibbons – P W & S A & N K George,Tallai QLDHORSES IN ACTIONChampion Hack of QueenslandBlack Tie – Kim Durante and HealeyFamily, Pimpama QLDChampion Lady RiderSamantha LeBrocq, Malanda QLDChampion Show Hunter Galloway ofQueenslandDP XTC – C Mort, Cooroy QLDChampion Pony Hack of Queensland12.2 hands and underBordershow Boy Scout – A & T Harris &A Woods, Buccan QLDChampion Hackney Horse in HarnessHudson Valentina – V Corvi, M Beggs &T Cowan, Elimbah QLDSHOWJUMPINGChampion Showjumping Rider of ShowBilly Raymont, Cooroy QLDDAIRY CATTLESupreme Dairy Cow of ShowArdylbar Dundee Noodle (Holstein-Friesian) – A D & S L Barron, CambooyaQLDCANINEBest in ShowShetland Sheepdog – Can. Ch Grand.Ch. Grandgables Home TownHero (imp US) – Elizabeth Lasry,Port Melbourne VICFELINEBest in ShowAbyssinian – (Open) Osiris (V) Infl uencedto Think – Michael Shawn, HeathwoodQLDPOULTRY/BIRDSGrand Champion Fowl of ShowChampion Large Hard Feather Fowl OfShow – Black Red, Dark Leg, Cock –Arthur Riedel, Kenilworth QLDGrand Champion Budgerigar of ShowChampion Young Bird – Peter Brown,McDowall QLDBOER GOATSSupreme Standard Boer Goat of ShowSenior Champion Standard Doe –Mugambi Witchcraft – P & J Ormsby,Forbes NSWDAIRY GOATSSupreme Dairy Doe of ShowChampion Saanen Doe – Rosia FarmMaree – Emma McDowell, Baan BaaNSWANGORA GOATSGrand Champion Angora GoatTagora 2518 – Sue Paterson,Cambooya QLDALPACASupreme Champion HuacayaChampion Junior Male – Hilldale ParkSilken Prince – A Harker & B Hambrook,Invergowrie NSWWOOLGrand Champion Fleece of ShowJ F & A M Doak, Bundarra NSW10Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

PISCICULTUREChampion Fish of ShowRainbow Fish, Sunfi sh – P Ford, BaldHills QLDQUILTS ACROSS QUEENSLANDBest of Show“Under Southern Skies” – Pam Hill,Manly QLDFINE ARTSCookeryGrand Champion Cake DecoratingExhibitP Morrison, Cleveland QLDCreative Art and CraftGrand Champion Exhibit“Rainbow Lorikeets” China Painting –Janette Ziimmermann, Dayboro QLDPainting and DrawingChampion Portrait of Show“Cowboy” – Lyn Green, Tamborine QLDSculptureChampion Sculpture of Show“Flying in Cirles” – Peter Stellar,Wellington Point QLDPhotographyChampion Print“Glacier Flight” – Sandra Anderson,Logan ReserveROYAL QUEENSLAND FOOD &WINE SHOWWINEChampion Wine from Trophy winningwinesBest Mature White Wine – BuringLeonay Maturation Release Riesling –Foster’s Group Ltd, Nuriootpa SABRANDED BEEFChampion Branded Beef of ShowStockyard Wagyu – Stockyard Pty Ltd,Hendra QLDDAIRY PRODUCEGrand Champion Diary Product of ShowChampion Cheese – Roaring FortiesBlue – King Island Dairy, King Island TASOLIVE OILChampion Extra Virgin Olive Oil of ShowAminya Olive Oil – Tri Star Trading PtyLtd, Eastwood NSWChampion Table Olive of ShowGreek Style Sevilano – Eagle Vale Olives,Geraldton WABEERChampion Beer of ShowHef – Burleigh Brewing Company, WestBurleigh QLD2010Ekka FUNFACTSMore than 400,000 people attended Ekka,up more than 20 per cent on last year.There were 3,600 jobs created especially for the show, not includingthe 800 volunteers who make the Ekka happen.The Cotton and Wool Parades were hugely popularwith more than 25,000 people attending.Around 3,570 Japanese pancakesand dumplings eaten.The famous Nestle Peters Strawberry Sundaescontinued in popularity with 145,000 sales.1,300 Royal Queensland Deli bags were sold.Almost 16,000 slices of Woodfire Pizza eaten.The Dairy Farmers Milking Barn milked30 cows each day in the animal nursery.CWA ladies made andsold 4,375 scones.Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 11

ROYALQUEENSLANDFOOD ANDWINE SHOWSORBET IN THE MIXHERALDS AUSSIE FIRSTAn exciting Australian first ice cream,gelato and sorbet show will be oneof eight competitions featuring in theRNA’s 2011 Royal Queensland Foodand Wine Show (RQFWS)Next year will mark the third year thisexciting and innovative show has beenoperating, following its debut in 2009with four competitions – dairy, beef,wine and sausage.This year the RQFWS expanded andintroduced three new competitions toshowcase lamb, olive oil and beer.RNA Chief Executive Jonathan Tunnysaid the introduction of a separate icecream, gelato and sorbet competitionwill showcase the nation’s best products.“This the first time in Australia that acompetition will be solely dedicated tojudging the best of the best in sorbets,gelato and ice cream,’’ he said.“The industry is fully supportive andour aim is to make these the premierawards in the nation.”Mr Tunny said although Queenslandproduces some of the best ice cream,gelato and sorbet on offer, toughcompetition from interstate is sure tomake these awards highly sought after.“This competition will also feature aclass for non cow’s milk ice creamwhich recognises the growing marketfor people who are lactose intolerant.”The RQFWS National Ice Cream,Gelato and Sorbet Competition will bejudged in May 2011. More informationon (07) 3253 3921.YOU’VE REACHED THE PEAK...NOW GET THE RECOGNITIONYOU DESERVEENTER THE 2011 ROYAL QUEENSLANDFOOD AND WINE SHOWIf you’re an Australian producerwith a passion for excellence, enterthe 2011 Royal Queensland Foodand Wine Show. Contactentries@rna.org.au for full detailsof the following competitions.Cheese and Dairy Produce ShowEntries Close 7 April 2011Judging 9-11 May 2011NEW!- National Ice Cream, Gelatoand Sorbet ShowEntries Close 7 April 2011Judging 10-12 May 2011New competition for 2011Branded Beef and Branded LambCompetitionEntries Close May 2011Judging June 2011Royal Queensland Wine ShowEntries Close 19 May 2011Judging 3-7 July 2011RQWS Awards Dinner 7 July 2011Olive Oil and Table Olive ShowNew in 2011 will be olive tapenadeclassesEntries Close 17 June 2011Judging 13-14 July 2011Beer ShowEntries close September 2011Judging October 2011New! – 2011 Masterclass SeriesFollowing the sell-out success of theinaugural RQFWS Masterclass heldinconjunction with the 2010 BeerShow, the RNA is organising a series ofmasterclasses in cheese, wine and beerfor 2011. The classes offer the public aunique opportunity to learn from thebest in the business. To secure yourplace, email your interest tomasterclass@royalqueenslandshow.com.auStewards wantedThe RNA is calling for volunteers to workas stewards for the prestigious 2011Royal Queensland Food and Wine Showcompetitions.If you’re keen to gain experience andknowledge from the best in the food andwine industry please contactRNA Competition Officer AndrewTudor on 07 3253 3921 oratudor@royalqueenslandshow.com.aufor further information.12Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

AgribusinessShowbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 13

EVENT CALENDERWHAT’S COMING UP …December 2010No Sleleepeps Til’BririsbsbananeSundnday19 Dececembmber2010Multltisistatagemetetalandpununk music festivalfeatatururining Megadeatath,Desescecendant,DropKicick Murprphyhys and Morere.....Brisisbane NewYeaear’r’s EveHollllywywooood BallSaturdrday31 Dececember201010The venue remimindndedsomome commmmititteteemembers oftheUniniversalStudios so aHOLLYWYWOOD/Black Tie thememeisplalannnned.BrisbabaneBanandidits– Homome GamemesThursday9 – Sataturday 11 Decembeber& Thursday30 December– Sunundaday 2Janunuary 2011January 2011IGA kidsmususicfesestitivaval – RhymymesSundnday23 January‘Rhymemes’is the veryfirstkidids’ musicfestivalheleld at the RNA Showgrounds.It will feature the very best in kid’sentertainment all to one place, for onemassive day out for kids and families.Three main stages will run the best inkids entertainment all day.Line up inclcludes – Hi 5 ,Yo GabbbbaGabbbba , BEN10 , AngngelinaBallllererinina , BobtheBuiuildlder,Spididerman and Ironman .BrisbaneBanandits – Homome GamemesFriday8 – Saturdaday 15 January &Thurursdsday27–Satatururday 29 JananuauaryFebruary 2011Laneway FestivalFrididay4 Februarary 2011Life to the Max with Kurek AshshleleySatuturdrday12 – Sundnday13 FebruaryTwo Day workrkshshopop, providiningpartrticicipipanantswitith the toolols and strategiesto movove their lifeto the nextlevel.Papeper Crafaft FestivivalFriday18 – Sundnday20 FebruaryIdeal BridalShohowFriday 18 – Sunday 20 FebruaryWedding directory for bridal expo,wedding gowns, wedding receptionvenues, fl orists and celebrants.Bloodstock SaleSunday 20 Febrbruauary2011ThoroughghbrbredAuctionforyearlingsandtwo yearoldhorses.s.SounundwavesSaturdrday26 February 201011Soundwavave retuturnrns,bigiggeger,better &goining wherere nofesestival has gonebefeforore.March 20112011Courier Maiail SundayMaiail HomeShowSatuturdrday5 – Sununday 14 MarchThe Courieierr-MaMailSunundaday MailHomomeShowattttraractcts many visitors froma larargeareaea. Thisexhibition features over 300exhibitors showcasing a dynamicofgoodods and services.Brisbane Snow ShowSatuturday 19 – Sunday20 MarchThe BrisbaneSnow Show will highlightthe leading resorts, accommodationproviders, wholesalers, transportationproviders for Australia, New Zealand,Japan and Canada in a two day show.Doll and Bear ShowSunday 20 MarchALL IN A DAY AT THE EKKA5.59am Dawn of anew day7.07am Cattle Pavilion7.28am Resting beforecompetition7.56am Enjoying a laugh8.41am On the move14Showbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010

RNA SHOWGROUNDSREGENERATION GETS ULDA GREEN LIGHTA major planning milestone inthe RNA’s history was reached onNovember 30, following approval ofthe $2.9 billion RNA ShowgroundsMasterplan by the Urban LandDevelopment Authority (ULDA).Minister for Infrastructure andPlanning Stirling Hinchliffe made theannouncement at a special mediaconference at the RNA and said itrepresented a new vision for the RNAShowgrounds which will see much of thesite open to the public all year round.Mr Hinchliffe said the redevelopmentwould ensure the fi nancial future of theEkka and create a year round vibrantcommercial, residential and retailprecinct. He said the RNA had appliedto redevelop under a quarter of the site,generally around the boundary, tofund much needed improvements toageing facilities.“The RNA would like to see some ofthe site redeveloped to fund a generalupgrade of the Ekka showgroundsand to ensure the show goes well intothe future’’ he said.“The Ekka is a Queensland tradition andthe RNA has advised the Governmentthis development will allow for muchneeded improvements and thecontinued presence of Ekka favouritessuch as the Wood Chop arena, SideShow Alley and both the larger andsmaller Show Rings.“It’s important to remember maintainingthese facilities for the annual showcosts money.“We do not want to go down the samepath as other cities that have movedtheir shows from the centre of the city toouter areas.“I’m pleased the RNA, working withLend Lease and the ULDA, havefound a way to keep the Ekka at BowenHills and make use of this valuable sitefor more than just the ten days of theEkka show.’’The RNA’s development applicationincluded 20,000m2 of retail spaceand 340,000m2 of commercial andresidential space. The approvedapplication will include a large fresh foodmarket and homes for an estimated3,000 residents.RNA Chief Executive Jonathan Tunnysaid the regeneration of the showbuildings also ensure their longevity.“All Queenslanders treasure the historicalsignifi cance of the Ekka and the RNAShowgrounds which has been hometo the iconic Royal Queensland Showsince it was fi rst held in 1876,’’ he said.“The RNA is committed to keeping thehistoric feel and relevance of the showand believes this regeneration will notjust enhance and energise the Ekkabut guarantee it remains at its rightfulbirthplace – the RNA Showgrounds – forfuture generations to enjoy.“Importantly, this essential regenerationmeans long overdue upgrades will bemade to our main animal facilities suchas the horse and cattle pavilions. Theseexciting upgrades will provide state ofthe art facilities specifi cally designed tocater for animal safety and hygiene.’’“ This regeneration will not just enhance and energise theEkka but guarantee it remains at its rightful birthplace –the RNA Showgrounds – for future generations to enjoy.”9.53am Helping Dad 2.59pm Woodchop arena 5.24pm Sideshow alley 8.43pm Fireworks 10.08pm Day's endShowbiz Magazine Summer Edition, 2010 15