The 2008 EKKA was a great improvement on last year with fine weather and good attendance.

Close to half a million visitors passed through the RNA Showgrounds over the 10 fun filled days.

Ride owners reported good spending by visitors providing a much needed improved gross takings compared to 2007.

The national Audit tool is working well and there was minimal fuss and no notices issued through this year's EKKA.

The push by Workcover over the impact of noise levels is continuing to cause some concern. A noticeable point was lack of security and police at this year's show and we believe this is the result of either user pays or cost cutting.

It is not a trend I support and believe to keep the families attending and to provide a safe environment it is important to have these services, particularly at the end of the day when the potential for trouble is greatest.

As the massive amount of machinery roles out of Brisbane heading onto the Adelaide show, it was impressive to see most machinery bumped out by Tuesday night without incident. It is a credit to all involved that this work was carried out with such a high level of professionalism.

We are looking forward this year's Adelaide show with a new layout and high expectations of good attendances.

A reminder to all Showmen heading to Adelaide. Please make an effort to attend the Adelaide Business Planning and Management workshop on Thursday 28 August at the Rydges Hotel South Park Adelaide.

The cost is AUD$45 per person including catering.

We have received excellent feedback from other showmen who have attended the workshops in Sydney and up north.

You will learn a great deal on how to improve the profitability of your business through improved business management skills and take home a business planning workbook worth thousands of dollars.

DON'T MISS THIS EVENT! If you can't make it send your wife, partner or supervisor and don't forget the workshops are heading to Melbourne (14th October), Hobart (16th October), Wodonga/Albury (2oth October), Fremantle (1st December) Penrith (9th December).

For further information call the AALARA office on 07 3807 3508 or e: [email protected]

Safe travelling!

Phil Durkin

AALARA Transportable Chair