International Visitors Flock to Ekka for a Taste of Queensland

International visitor numbers to the Ekka have hit an all-time high with the fixture now one of Queensland’s most popular tourist events for international travellers.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones today revealed more than 20,000 international visitors from China alone have visited the Ekka over the last three years.

“Numbers of international visitors to the Ekka continue to climb each year. This is a testament to the fact that tourists want a uniquely Queensland experience,” she said.

“We’re working hard to grow our tourism industry by marketing the best parts of life in Queensland. Our strategy is paying off in growing source markets like China and India.

“This year a record 20,000 Chinese visitors came to the Ekka. These numbers count only visitors who have booked through ticketing agents – e know there are many more that just come through the gates.

“The Ekka generates more than $220 million a year for the local economy and supports more than 3500 jobs.”

Ms Jones said the Ekka had also attracted more visitors from regional Queensland over the last three years.

“It’s not just the retailers on the grounds who are doing well, local and regional businesses benefit as well,” she said.

Another key increase has been in those making day trips from South East Queensland.

“Day trips to Brisbane alone across 2016-17 were worth more than $1.5 billion to our Queensland economy and the Ekka certainly contributes greatly to this,” Ms Jones said.

“We’ve also seen an increase in the number of people from southeast Queensland making the day trip from the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast.

“It’s a great day out with an easy train ride for the whole family.”

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