Feedback wanted: Community invited to shape future of Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show

General Manager Mark Paddenburg says the feedback will play a key role in developing the Society’s next Strategic Plan.

Fresh off a record-breaking year, organisers of the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show are inviting the wider community to help shape the event’s future through a new strategic survey.

The Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society has opened an anonymous online survey, asking residents, patrons, members, competitors and volunteers to share what they value most about the Show — and where they believe it can be strengthened.

General Manager Mark Paddenburg said the feedback would play a key role in developing the Society’s next Strategic Plan, following a standout 2025 Show that attracted more than 38,000 visitors to the Nambour Showgrounds.

“Their valuable feedback will help us understand what’s working well, identify areas that could be even better, and help guide our growth plans for the next decade,” Mr Paddenburg said in an invitation to Sunshine Valley Gazette readers.

The short survey can be completed in just a few minutes, with optional sections for those wanting to provide more detailed reflections. Participants are encouraged to review the Society’s 12 draft strategic themes or pillars before responding.

The call for community input comes as planning ramps up for a major milestone in 2026, marking the 120th show and 125 years since the first Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show was first held in 1900 ( a few shows were missed due to world war and COVID).

Show president Rowan O’Hara said the anniversary provided a moment to reflect and look ahead.

“This theme, ‘Celebrating 120 Years of Show Traditions,’ is a heartfelt tribute to everyone who has walked through our gates and supported us since the first show,” Mr O’Hara said.

He said the 2025 event highlighted the passion and community spirit that underpins the Show, from competitors and exhibitors to volunteers and sponsors.

“We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and we are always striving to improve the show experience,” he said.

Alongside anniversary planning, the Society has been implementing a range of new initiatives, including governance reviews, youth engagement projects and a renewed focus on marketing and communications.

The survey is now open and available at http://bit.ly/4juOavg.

• The 2026 Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show will be held from June 12–14 at the Nambour Showgrounds, with a special pre-show arts event on Wednesday June 10. For more information, or to get involved, contact Mark Paddenburg on 0455 551 014 or 5441 2766 or check out: https://sunshinecoastshow.com.au/