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Ekka experience gets Travel and Tourism students job-ready
From show bags to showgrounds, TAFE Queensland Travel and Tourism students swapped the classroom for Queensland’s biggest stage at the iconic Ekka.
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is one of the most anticipated events on Brisbane’s calendar, attracting around 400,000 visitors to the Brisbane Showgrounds from 9 - 17 August 2025.
Once again, TAFE Queensland’s Certificate III in Travel (SIT30222) and Certificate III in Tourism (SIT30122) students stepped into the action.
Volunteering across the showgrounds in a variety of visitor-facing roles, our students put the theory into practice, thanks to our valued partnership with the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland.
Guided by educators Cheryleigh Lazarus and Stacey Garbutt, students secured volunteer roles at the visitor information desks, assisted with lost property enquiries, loaded ride cards, shared event schedules, and guided patrons through the Ekka app.
“The Ekka is such a significant event for Brisbane – it’s a real celebration of our community, culture, and industries,” said Cheryleigh.
“For our students, it’s also an incredible training ground where they get to put their skills to the test in real time.”
While delivering this vital guest service, educators assessed students across four competency units: providing visitor information, working effectively with others, demonstrating social and cultural sensitivity, and delivering customer service.
“It’s an authentic, high-pressure environment where you meet people from all walks of life. That’s exactly the kind of experience that builds confidence, adaptability, and job readiness,” Cheryleigh explained.
The Ekka also offers students exposure to rural and remote businesses, unique agricultural displays, and cultural exhibits they might not otherwise experience.
For many, it’s their first time at the show - and the show bags and iconic strawberry ice creams certainly add to the fun.
“Hands-on, industry-integrated learning like this accelerates our students’ development. They’re not just practising skills in the classroom – they’re applying them with real visitors, in real situations, and getting real-time feedback. It helps them get job-ready sooner,” Cheryleigh said.
TAFE Queensland is proud to continue supporting the Ekka and providing students with opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to one of Queensland’s most iconic events.