Opening of the 131st Longreach Annual Show

Longreach Regional Council Mayor,  Councillor  Tony Rayner; President of the Longreach Show Society,  Mr Tony Boyle and Vice-Presidents, Ms Katherine Lynch and Ms Bridget Ryan; Patron, Mrs Margie Webb; Rural Ambassador, Ms Georgie Orman; Queensland Country Life Showgirl, Ms Brydie Moore; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; boys and girls. 

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands around Longreach, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here this evening.  

There is something very special about a country show in Queensland. 

In communities like yours here in Longreach, the showground becomes, for a few days each year, the beating heart of the district — a place where agriculture, community and culture come together.

Across our state, from the great scale of the Ekka in Brisbane to local shows like Capella, these events form an extraordinary network—  bringing together producers, families, volunteers, businesses and visitors, and connecting city and country through a shared appreciation of the work that sustains us all.

Here in Longreach, that connection is on full display.

This is a region shaped by the land and by the industries that rely on it — particularly the cattle and sheep industries that have underpinned the local economy since Queensland became its own state. 

The expertise, innovation and sheer grit required to succeed in this environment are considerable, and occasions such as this give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate that achievement.

Whether it is the prime livestock on show, the equestrian events, the craft and produce displays, or simply the chance to catch up with neighbours and friends, there is something here for everyone — and each element tells a part of the broader story of this community.

Shows like this are also about continuity — about passing on skills, knowledge and values from one generation to the next.

It is always a delight to see young people so actively involved—learning the disciplines of agriculture, building confidence, and developing a deep and lasting connection to regional life. In them, we see the future of industries and communities that are so important to Queensland.

But none of this happens by accident.

Events of this scale and quality are only possible because of the extraordinary commitment of volunteers, organisers, sponsors and supporters. Your hard work — often behind the scenes — ensures that the Longreach Show continues to thrive, just as it has through good seasons and challenging ones. 

In doing so, you help sustain not only a much-loved event, but the spirit of the community itself.

As Governor, I have had the privilege of visiting communities right across Queensland, and what stands out time and again is the resilience, generosity and pride that define regional life. Nowhere are those qualities more evident than at a show such as this.

It is now my great pleasure to declare the Longreach Show officially open. May it continue to bring people together in celebration of all that makes this remarkable region so special.