THE Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is celebrating a remarkable milestone this year – its 150th anniversary – and one of its longest-standing traditions will take centre stage when Ekka Beef Week kicks off on Monday 3 August.

Beef Week isn’t just for exhibitors – it’s a celebration of the entire beef industry, with the opportunity to share knowledge, build connections and strengthen relationships across all sectors of the supply chain.

Beyond the competition rings, there is plenty to do, from industry showcases and demonstrations to health and wellbeing support, career initiatives and opportunities to connect with fellow beef industry members.

Entry to the Ekka grounds during Beef Week is free, making it an ideal opportunity for the industry to come together, reconnect and see the very best of Australian beef on display.

More than 1498 head of cattle across 27 breeds will be judged on the Main Arena during the week, competing in both Stud and Led Steer competitions. The Stud Beef Competition is the most prestigious annual gathering of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, while the Led Steer Competition is recognised as one of Australia’s leading competitions of its type.

Many family members will be on hand to support their youth in the Stud Beef and Prime Young Judges competition, as well as the extensive Stud Beef Paraders competitions on Thursday 6 August.

Beef cattle competitions have been a cornerstone of the Show since the very first Ekka in 1876, when just three beef cattle breeds were displayed. One hundred and fifty years later, Ekka Beef Week continues to showcase the strength, diversity and achievements of Queensland’s and Australia’s beef industry. Judging of the Stud cattle will commence at 8am Friday for a two-day judging schedule culminating on Saturday afternoon in the Parade of Champions and Champion of Champions.

Competition program highlights

• Monday 3 August

Led Steer School Paraders Competition – 12pm

• Tuesday 4 August

Junior Led Heifer Judging – 8.30am

Junior Led Steer Judging – 9.15am

Inter School Steer Competition Judging – 10.30am

School Steer Young Judges Competition – 11.30am

• Wednesday 5 August

Open Led Steer Judging – from 8am

Led Steer Auction and ALPA Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition  – approx. 1.30pm

• Thursday 6 August

RNA Stud Beef Young Judges Competition and Queensland Ag Shows Stud Beef Young Judges Competition – 8am

RNA Stud Beef Paraders Competition and Queensland Ag Shows Stud Beef Paraders Competition – 12pm

• Friday 7 August

Stud Beef judging – from 8am including the Charolais Feature Show

• Saturday 8 August

Stud Beef Judging – from 9am

Parade of Champions and Champion of Champions judging will take place following the completion of stud beef judging at approximately 2pm

More than just the competition rings….

JBS Butchery Demonstration Truck

As part of Ekka Beef Week, skilled boners from the JBS Dinmore Beef Processing Plant will conduct an interactive carcass breakdown demonstration, showcasing the skills and expertise required in modern beef processing. This will be followed by a butchery demonstration led by JBS Executive Chef Dan Johnston, with commentary from the JBS Livestock team. The interactive sessions provide a unique opportunity for visitors, including school students and industry stakeholders, to gain hands-on insight into the journey from carcass to beef cuts and learn more about Australia’s largest beef processor, JBS. The demonstrations will take place on Tuesday 4 and Friday 7 August at 11.30am.

Skin Cancer Checks

Those in the beef industry can access free skin cancer checks during Beef Week, available on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 August from 10am to 2pm. With many producers spending significant time outdoors, the service provides a convenient opportunity to maintain regular skin checks while attending Ekka, highlighting the importance of sun protection and early detection.

Mental Health Support

Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) Mental Health staff will be at Beef Week on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 August, providing an opportunity for those in the beef industry to learn more about wellbeing and the resources available to support them.

 AgForce Marquee
The AgForce Marquee will bring together families and future agricultural professionals during Beef Week, with kids’ activities, badge making and careers information available. AgForce’s School to Industry Partnership Program will host the 2026 Career Snapshots on Monday 3 August at 5pm, where agricultural professionals will share their career pathways, experiences and the opportunities available across the agricultural industry.

 Somerville House Marquee
Somerville House will once again join the Beef Week celebrations with a marquee showcasing its commitment to education, community and supporting future generations. Visitors can stop by from Wednesday 5 to Friday 7 August from 9am to 4pm, with giveaways also available.

Industry connection and celebration

Paddock to Palate Awards & Beef Industry Dinner

The Paddock to Palate Awards & Beef Industry Dinner will be held at 6pm on Thursday 6 August in the Royal International Convention Centre, bringing together Queensland’s beef industry to celebrate excellence and achievement. The ticketed event will recognise the winners of the Paddock to Palate Competition presented by JBS Australia, while providing an opportunity for producers and industry representatives to connect and network with others across the beef supply chain. Ticket sales close 24 July 2026 at 5pm. To purchase a ticket click here.

Bull Bar

New for Ekka’s 150th anniversary, the Bull Bar will provide a dedicated space for the beef industry to come together, celebrate achievements and share in the excitement of Beef Week. Located in the heart of the action in the Main Arena, the bar will offer a new gathering point for industry members to enjoy a beverage, connect with colleagues and celebrate competition successes. The Bull Bar will be open from Wednesday 5 to Friday 7 August, 11am–5pm, and Saturday 8 August, 11am–2pm.

Suncorp Bank Hospitality Marquee

The Suncorp Bank Hospitality Marquee is a welcoming space to enjoy a tea or coffee and a selection of fresh homemade treats, with all donations supporting the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation. It will also provide a casual space for industry members to connect and do business during Beef Week. The marquee will be open on Wednesday 5 August from 8.30am to 4pm, Thursday 6 August from 8.30am to 2pm, and Friday 7 August from 8am to 2pm.

 As the Ekka celebrates 150 years, Beef Week remains a proud showcase of the people, stories and achievements that have shaped the industry. This milestone event is an opportunity for the beef industry to come together and celebrate the innovation, dedication and people behind Queensland and Australian beef.

Contributed content from RNA