Entertainment
16 July, 2026
Lots of thrills at 111th show
THE thrills came thick and fast at the 111th Innisfail and District Show, where huge crowds poured through the gates on 9-10 July for two days packed with colour, noise and country fun.
Outback Jack’s Stockman Show drew standing room only audiences on both nights, with whip cracking, horsemanship and working dogs setting the tone for a show that never slowed down.
Persistent wet weather failed to dampen spirits as families streamed in for their annual fix of food, show bags, sideshow alley and all the age old favourites of pavilion exhibits, cattle auction, horse and ring events and the ever popular dog show.
The RESTA reptile display had adults and kids leaning in close to snakes and lizards, while Carters Animal Farm was once again a magnet for youngsters eager to cuddle chickens, sheep, ducks, horses, a donkey and goats.
Vintage cars, roving entertainers and the crowd pleasing comedy pig and duck races added even more colour to the grounds.
After a standout debut in 2025, the Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s waste to art competition returned with an impressive spread of creative entries, including a striking life-like turtle crafted from recycled cardboard and supermarket bags.
The poultry and cage bird pavilion was bursting with a beautiful and diverse range of entries 375 in total while the orchid section attracted 103 stunning exhibits. Banana pride was on full display as large, vocal crowds packed in for the Australian Banana Packing Championship and Backpackers Challenge.
The inaugural banana packing speed race, named in honour of Innisfail Show life member Greg Vuleta, drew fierce competition, with Marc Di Carlo claiming the title in a blistering 1m32s.
Teams from across the Cassowary Coast battled it out for packing glory, judged not only on speed but also on presentation and weight.
Showgoers collected an interactive map at the gate, earning stamps at various locations for the chance to win a two-night stay for up to five guests at a family beach house at Big 4 Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park. Rob Martin was the lucky winner.
Both nights ended with a bang thanks to spectacular fireworks by Xplosive Art, lighting up the sky and capping off another memorable show.
Local businesses and families were full of praise. “The banana exhibition was outstanding as always and it’s great to see such quality local produce on display. Well done to all involved in such an exceptional event,” said Alex Venables from MoDa Real Estate.
Another enthusiastic showgoer, Kaila Maree Mckeegan, said: “I went both days and this crazy mum here went on five of the craziest rides, not including the zipper. My six babies and I had an absolute blast.”
Read More: Innisfail