Free Things to See & Do

Monday 30th June & Tuesday 1st July 2025

Plan your visit to the Atherton Show with our exciting range of entertainment, demonstrations and displays for all ages.

Animal Experiences

Get up close with friendly farm animals at the Fresh St Market IGA Animal Nursery brought to you by Atherton Primary School – open all day for patting, feeding, and plenty of “aww” moments.

Wander through the Poultry & Stud Beef Pavilions to meet local breeders and check out prize-winning chooks and cattle.

Don’t miss the Working Dog Demonstration on Tuesday at 3:00pm with legends Frank Finger & Nathan Obst, proudly sponsored by Cowgirl Country. Watch their incredible dogs in action herding cattle with skill and precision.

Sensory Room & Inclusion Program

Enter our All Abilities section with your entries to help bring the show to town.

Monday 30th June | 9am–12noon for a Calmer and Quieter experience
$7 per person for Disability, Aged and Veteran Card Holders. Companions & Carers FREE – must hold a valid companion card.

Visit the Wonderland Glow Garden by TRC

Enjoy a quiet, welcoming space with sensory-friendly activities designed for all abilities. This inclusive session offers a calm environment for individuals and families needing a break from the hustle and bustle.

Displays & Demonstrations

Check out Fields of the Future to meet local growers and makers sharing sustainable farming and food insights.

Step back in time with Australia’s Living History featuring blacksmithing, vintage tools, and traditional trades.

Watch our Emergency Services in action with live demos – plus meet the heroes behind the scenes.

Meet this year’s Working Dogs team – Frank Finger & Nathan Obst and their dogs Annie & Chief – straight from the ABC’s Muster Dogs series 1 & 3, thanks to Cowgirl Country. They will be demonstrating training and working on both days with ducks and goats. 

 

Rides, Sideshows & Showbags

Step right up for non-stop thrills, classic fun, and magical memories!

Get ready to spin, soar, slide, and squeal with delight – the showgrounds are brimming with heart pounding rides and nostalgic show favourites for everyone to enjoy.

Rides for the Whole Family

Hold on tight – the rides at this year’s show are bigger, faster, and more exhilarating than ever! From the soaring heights of the Star Flyer to the family-favourite Dodgem Carts, there’s a thrill for every age and level of adventure. Little ones can enjoy gentle rides like the Tea Cups, while adrenaline junkies can brave high-speed spinners and wild coasters. And don’t miss the chance to bounce high on the Bungee Trampolines or race your mates on the giant slides. The ride zone is packed with heart-pounding fun and twinkling lights, perfect for a day (or night!) of unforgettable action.

Sideshow Alley Fun

Step into the vibrant world of Sideshow Alley, where fun and games never end! Try your hand at all the show classics – will you win big with the Laughing Clowns, catch the prize in Catch a Duck, or show off your aim with Bust a Balloon? There’s a game for every skill level and prize hunter, and heaps of quirky challenges to test your luck. The music, colour and excitement of the alley will draw you in – whether you’re chasing a giant plush toy or just enjoying the buzzing atmosphere, this is where the show magic really happens.

Showbags Galore

Wander through Showbag Lane and prepare to be dazzled! From bags filled with sweet treats and toys to themed goodies from your favourite characters, gaming legends, beauty brands and more – there’s something for everyone. Kids can dive into the fun with superhero and cartoon-themed bags, while teens and adults will love the novelty, retro and deluxe options. Whether you’re into chocolate, glitter, games or gadgets, there’s a showbag with your name on it. Be quick though – the most popular ones fly off the shelves fast!

Competitions & Judging

Stud Beef Pavilion

  • Monday 9am: Stud Beef Judging & Junior Paraders
  • Tuesday 9am: Junior Beef Judging

Show Jumping in the Main Arena

  • Monday 5:45pm: Junior Six Bar
  • Monday 6:30pm: Senior Six Bar

Arts, Crafts & Horticulture Exhibits

  • Merriland Pavilion – open all day

Horse Events

  • Both days from 8am – Main Arena

Show Map & Entry Points

Plan your day with our handy Atherton Showgrounds Map! There are two main public entry points to the Atherton Showgrounds

Gate 1 – Louise Street Entrance

Located near mid-way along Louise Street. Closest access to:

  • Kids Rides
  • Food Vendors
  • Cattle and Horses
  • TRC Sensory Room
  • Animal Nursery

Gate 2 – Robert Street Entrance

Main entry gate nearest the Show Office and Grandstand. Closest access to:

  • Merriland Hall
  • Grandstand Seating
  • Poultry Pavilion
  • Toilets

    Additional Information:

    • Traders Entry via Louise Street (see Map Point #2)
    • Accessible Entry & Parking is available at both main gates
    • No entry via Robert Street (see marked red lines on map)

    Reminder: The Atherton Show is a non-smoking event. Smoking is permitted only in the designated areas marked on the map. Glass-Free Event – no glass containers are allowed onsite.

    For full venue access, entertainment zones, and facility locations, refer to the numbered key on the map. Printed copies will also be available at the entry gates and Show Office.