Every year, Queenslanders from all across the state pack up their cars, grab their families and head to the Brisbane showgrounds for a wonderful August weekend at the Ekka. However, this year the Brisbane show looks a little different- much like many other anticipated events. In light of the global pandemic, the Ekka was cancelled, and an online event constructed in its place. Whilst many may be disappointed about the cancellation of the event, it holds more concern for many farmers, business and restaurant owners rely on the event for advertising and exposure to the masses of crowds.
With the re-opening of Queensland, supporting local businesses is more important than ever. To help make that task easier, we’ve compiled a list of things you can do to support local businesses both around Bribie Island and Brisbane. Although you may not be able to get your serving of strawberry ice-cream from the Ekka, local strawberry farms are open and ready for visitors to pick their own strawberries. Some of our closest farms are located near Toorbul road, however if you’re prepared to travel farms are located around the Sunshine coast. It is the perfect opportunity to get out of the house and have a fun day out whilst adhering to social distancing. If you’re willing to head into Brisbane, food trucks have hit the streets offering delicious snacks to Queenslanders. Farmers and businesses owners have had to get innovative to provide their devoted fans with a taste of the Ekka this year, with producers from the Scenic Rim even going as far as to create a rural alternative to the Brissy show, provided restrictions continue as there are and cases do not spike. However, if you’re still cautious to leave home or wanting to directly support the Ekka, https://www.ekka.com.au/ the website offers a number of different activities from pre-ordering DIY packs to tuning into live videos to meet a farmer. They provide information on entering competitions, updates and places to donate if you wish. Heading a little closer to home, local businesses have once again opened up and are ready for customers. Shopping locally supports the Bribie community, so grab a basket and some local produce and head to the beach. Popular food destinations around the island are open, remembering that some will require booking and calling in advance to guarantee a spot. Twenty-twenty has been the year of unexpected surprises, it has caused everyone to have to adapt and overcome challenges we would never expect to face. Whilst no one could imagine the Ekka would be a virtual event, it is great to see Queenslanders continuing to uplift businesses, farmers and Australians as we come together in a different way to celebrate our beloved annual show. Remember that whilst times are tough it is more important than ever to be kind, to be considerate and to be supportive.