Fireworks

In September each year,  huge crowds gather along the banks of the Brisbane River for Riverfire; a 20 minute synchronised fireworks spectacular.  

Riverfire is the annual conclusion to the Brisbane Festival, which is one of Australia's leading international arts festivals. 

Further information about Riverfire can be found here.

 

 

 

Ekka

The 'Ekka" is Queensland's largest annual event.  Everyone in Queensland knows about the "Ekka".  There is even a public holiday for "Ekka".

I received the strangest looks when we arrived in Queensland and I asked: "What is Ekka?"

It was originally called the Brisbane Exhibition, which was shortened to Ekka, and the name has remained.  Ekka is the Royal Brisbane Show, which commenced in 1876.  Ekka has been held each year, except in 1919 (Spanish Flu Epidemic) and 1942 (Show Grounds in use for World War II).  Unfortunately, it was announced today that Ekka shall also be closed again in 2020 due to the Coronavirus.

You can find out more about Ekka here

There are always crowds at the Ekka

I always loved the clowns as a child

There is always something happening in the main arena

Always a lot of produce on show

Fairy floss and Hotdogs are a must at the show

Cupie dolls take me back to childhood shows

Sideshow alley is always popular

Ribbons and Animals aplenty

Rides for all ages

Cheap Prizes

Fireworks each night

Riverfire 2017

"You need to see River Fire at least once!"

"River Fire is amazing"

So many people have recommended that we should see River Fire.  We were also warned that it was difficult to get a good position as the river banks quickly fill with people.

Crowds made it difficult to walk at South Bank

Therefore we decided to purchase tickets to the River Life River Fire pop up cafe restaurant, to ensure that we could have a good view and enjoy the festivities with food, drinks and music.  

The many boats on the river had a good view.

Although the fireworks were due to start at 7pm but we thought that we would arrive early at about 4.30pm.  It's a good thing that we did as we totally underestimated the crowds and time delays!

Helicopters flew low at South Bank

Firstly,  the army helicopters flew very low along the river.  Next the RAAF jets roared by and then up as far as the eye could see.  They were so loud that I am surprised that windows didn't break!  They certainly scared many children as there was a chorus of crying after the first fly by.

River Life Pop Up Cafe Restaurant

The start of the fireworks was announced by another pass of the RAAF jets. The fireworks started just after 7pm and continued for 30 minutes (that went very quickly).  The fireworks were all along the river and in time to music.

It was a fantastic spectacle.  The second best fireworks that I have ever seen (behind Disneyland California).

Will we go again?  Yes most definitely!  However,  rather than paying for a seat at a riverbank restaurant,  we shall arrive earlier with a picnic!

The fireworks were co-ordinated to music, all along the river.

My Hints:  

• Arrive early as there are people everywhere.  The train is a better (and quicker) mode of transport as parking (even at Ferry terminals) is hard to come by.
• Avoid South Bank as it is too busy; instead walk around the river bank until you find a place that is less populated
• Take a chair and picnic and find your spot early.
• You are going to see the fireworks no matter where you are :)