Lock in your EKKA holiday long weekend plans

Mark next year’s calendar, Moreton Bay Region residents have scored a long weekend with a public holiday on Monday August 8, 2022, for the Royal Queensland Show (EKKA).

Mayor Peter Flannery is encouraging locals to start planning their long weekend holiday now.

“Council always makes the show holiday a long weekend to give locals more time to enjoy our region, and now more than ever it’s important that people holiday at home to help support local businesses and our local economy,” Mayor Flannery says.

“So, get in and book your accommodation now to make sure you don’t miss out.

“This year local operators will get two bites of the cherry, with Moreton Bay Region’s show holiday coming up on Monday, August 9 and Brisbane’s EKKA show holiday moved from the usual Wednesday to Friday, August 14.

“Operators have said they’re expecting an influx of drive tourism to our region, and I know they’ll be turning on the usual charm to keep visitors wanting to come back again and again.

“To help, the ‘Moreton Bay Minutes Away’ campaign has been rolled out around South East Queensland as a reminder that this is the most convenient destination for a short stay, and also most attractive in my opinion.

Make a plan now

Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism Chairman Shane Newcombe says there are plenty of options close to home for a day trip, tourism experience or weekend away this year and plenty more for 2022.

“With travel uncertainty remaining, it makes sense to enjoy experiences and places in the region you have not yet discovered,” Mr Newcombe says.

“It’s also a chance to share these with family and friends.”

Moreton Bay Regional Council is continuing its ‘Support Local’ campaign to remind residents that it’s absolutely vital for them to think local, shop local, and stay local right now, especially as the region starts to recover from coronavirus.

“With the 2022 show holiday confirmed for August 8, I encourage you to sit down with your family to map out the places you haven’t been in Moreton Bay Region and explore your own backyard,” Mayor Flannery says.

“Our $1 billion tourism industry will likely feel the impacts of COVID-19 for years to come, but nothing will diminish the passion or service standards of our amazing local operators.

“So, I implore locals to get online and check out the amazing array of attractions here in our region just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.”

For inspiration on what to do in Moreton Bay, head to www.visitmoretonbayregion.com.au.

For more information the 2021 show holiday in Moreton Bay, including impacted services, visit our website.