The Crows Nest Showgrounds hold a special place in the region’s history, reflecting the town’s early beginnings as a timber-hauling stop and its growth into a thriving community.
Crows Nest was declared a town in 1876, with the arrival of the railway in 1886 boosting agriculture, transport, and local events.
The Showgrounds Committee was formed in 1901 and, over time, has operated from three different locations. Today, Crows Nest is one of only three showgrounds in Queensland owned by its committee rather than a local council a rare and proud achievement.
The Show Society has long been a pillar of community life, championing local industries and especially the sport of woodchopping, supported for decades by dedicated local leaders.
While detailed records of the early showgrounds are limited, their story is tightly woven into the progress of the town itself.
Each year begins with the Show Camp on the 10th and 11th of January a hands-on weekend where youth and adults learn cattle handling, grooming, cooking, photography, whip plaiting, welding and more, all designed to help participants prepare for entries in the annual show.
Showgirl Coordinator Elly Close, who grew up in the show movement and was crowned Darling Downs Showgirl in 2023, encourages everyone to get involved.
“It’s a great place to meet people, learn new skills and have a lot of fun,” she said. “Being an ambassador for the show society is not only personally rewarding it helps you grow, build lifelong connections and develop skills that stay with you.”
The Society is now seeking the next Showgirl, Rural Ambassador, Junior Rural Ambassador, Junior Showgirl and Miss Princess.
Anyone interested is invited to contact Elly Close for more information.
Looking ahead, the Showgrounds continue to evolve. “We’ve diversified to plan for the future,” said President Doug Gillies. “The grounds can now host up to 120 caravans, and our function centre can cater for up to 200 people.”
The ground offer an all abilities ablutions block, Free WiFi with booster, fully equipped stainless steel canteen with adjoining Barbeque area to cater for up to 200 people, watering points around the grounds, lighting in the majorinty of areas and a large amount of buildings that are suited to different initiatives.
In 2021 they hosted over 3500 patrons for the Crows Nest Rodeo.
Bookings can be made at bookings.crowsnest@gmail.com
With a proud history of woodchopping, strong stud and prime beef sections, and a commitment to serving the community, the Crows Nest Showgrounds remain a vital hub for local events, heritage and connection.
The 16 acre Crows Nest Showgrounds are available for hire for public events & private functions.
January 10-11 – Show camp
April 11 Annual show ball
May 9 Annual Show and it will host the new activity call “Buggys and Bras”
June Country Music week
August Car Club Show n Shine
September Caravan group
October Darling Downs Bottle Club
2026 is an Australian National meet held here at the showgrounds
November Annual multi auction Wade Hartwig 0447174071 Hartwig and bliss auctioneers they also run a cattle sale every month at the showgrounds cattle yards
Abby rose runs health fitness classes every week ph 0408 202 416
Plus birthday parties and regular travelling caravans unpowered $20 a night powered $30 a night
And they will be expanding he activities in 2026
For more information contact 07 4698 1390
