Entertainment
7 June, 2025
Malanda kicks off show season
IT’S showtime this month and leading the charge is Malanda, with its three-day event beginning on the first weekend of the school holidays.
Organisers say it is perfect timing for families to plan a trip to the Atherton Tablelands.
“It promises to be an event not to be missed, with a jam-packed program full of fun including the animal competitions and displays (dairy and beef cattle, horses, poultry and gorgeous animal nursery), our temporary show hall full of culinary treats and craft and, of course, side-show alley,” a spokesperson said.
The weekend begins on Friday evening, 27 June, with the popular street parade, a highlight of the show.
This year’s theme is “Construction” and organisers are encouraging vehicles and machinery from vintage and beyond, as well as elaborate costumes, walking processions, marching bands, decorated bikes and creative floats.
Icon and well-loved Malanda local, Gill Harrington, will be opening the Dairy Farmer’s Malanda Show on Friday night. The winner of the 2025 Malanda Pharmacy Queen and Princess Competition will also be announced during the official opening.
The competition acknowledges upcoming young ladies who make valuable contributions to their community, who support show industries and represent the town.
Saturday promises a full day of competition in the dairy, stud and main arena areas culminating with the BIG “Spar’tacular” fireworks display in the evening, supported by Spar Supermarket and The Big Pub.
Saturday night also provides an opportunity for the inner farmer to shine via the Strategic Builder’s Farmer’s Challenge.
On Sunday, the heartwarming Pet Parade will be doing its spin around the Ted Morris Arena from 9.30am. Visitors will also have the chance to cheer along the Queen and Princess entrants as they fight it out to see who becomes the Champion Hand Milker.
Dairy Farmers has provided $500 for donation to a charity of the winner’s choice.
With the Patrick English Pavilion no longer operating, the “show hall” will be at the Big Pub, on James Street, and will feature exhibits of quilts, woodwork, horticulture, junior exhibits, and more.
Sadly, the Malanda Show Ball was cancelled this year due to the pavilion closure.
But there’s plenty of entertainment to be enjoyed, with the show’s bar area providing music by Chris from Discotechnics on Friday evening and Careless on Saturday night both until late.
Other highlights include a blacksmith demonstration, woodchops both Saturday and Sunday, goat and sheep displays, a reptile display and the adorable farm nursery.
Ozzie and Tickles, the dinosaurs, will be along with their friend Ranger Jim to entertain, and a dino dance party will be held.
Tickets cost $85 for a family pass for two adults and two children for the three-day event.
More information is available at www.malandashow.com.au.
