Thetraveljunkie.org – The Brisbane Ekka, officially known as the Royal Queensland Show, is one of Australia’s most cherished annual events, and in 2025, it shines brighter than ever. This year’s celebration is a kaleidoscope of colour, tradition, and community spirit, drawing visitors from all over Queensland and beyond. As you wander through the bustling showgrounds, you’re greeted by a mix of nostalgic charm and modern attractions, where farm animals, carnival rides, live entertainment, and delicious local food come together in one lively space. For this walking tour, I brought along my trusty Fujifilm X Half camera — a compact yet powerful half-frame camera that captures twice the moments on each roll. Its unique perspective is perfect for street photography, and the Ekka provides no shortage of subjects. From children’s laughter as they clutch fairy floss to the quiet concentration of woodchop competitors, every corner offers a new story waiting to be frozen in time. The half-frame format invites a creative approach, letting me pair moments together like visual poetry.
One of the highlights of this year’s walk was the Showbag Pavilion, where aisles of colourful displays tempt both the young and the young-at-heart. The camera’s Reala Ace film simulation brought out the rich, warm tones of the bustling crowds and the glossy packaging. In the animal exhibits, the contrast between the soft textures of woolly sheep and the gleam of prize-winning ribbons became a photographer’s dream. These little details, often overlooked, give the Ekka its authentic and heartfelt character.
The ASMR aspect of this walking tour added a whole new layer to the experience. The gentle hum of conversations, the crunch of gravel underfoot, the distant call of carnival barkers, and the rhythmic thud of the woodchop event all created a soundscape that was just as captivating as the visuals. Watching the footage back, I found that these ambient sounds transported me right back to the moment, making the scenes feel alive even through a screen.
Street photography at the Ekka is a study in contrasts. Brightly lit rides spin against the evening sky while quiet moments unfold in the background — a child feeding a goat, an elderly couple sharing a strawberry ice cream, a showman proudly polishing his vintage tractor. These slices of life, captured candidly, tell the real story of the Ekka beyond the main stage. It’s where the traditions of rural Queensland meet the vibrant energy of Brisbane city life.
Brisbane EKKA 2025 was more than just an event; it was a reminder of how powerful a single day of exploration can be. Walking with my Fujifilm X Half, I found myself slowing down, noticing the beauty in everyday interactions, and letting the ASMR atmosphere sink into my senses. Whether you’re a local who grew up with the Ekka or a first-time visitor, this year’s show offers something magical for everyone — and for me, it was a perfect mix of photography, sound, and storytelling.
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