For anyone who’s ever braved the crowds, dodged dagwood dogs, and queued for the ghost train at Brisbane’s Ekka, good news is on the horizon. In 2025, visitors to Queensland’s biggest annual event will have a brand new way to arrive with the opening of the new Exhibition Train Station, part of the Cross River Rail project.
What is the New Exhibition Train Station?
The new station, officially known as the Exhibition Station, has been completely rebuilt and upgraded as part of Brisbane’s Cross River Rail program. Previously, Exhibition Station only operated during the Ekka each August, but the new version will be a fully operational, year-round train station.
The modernised station will feature:
- Fully accessible platforms with lifts and escalators
- Direct, easy access to the RNA Showgrounds
- Connections to the wider Brisbane train network via the Cross River Rail
- Covered walkways and improved crowd flow
It’s designed not just for the Ekka, but also for year-round events and residential growth in the Bowen Hills and Fortitude Valley areas.
Why It Matters for Ekka Visitors in 2025
If you’ve been to the Ekka before, you’ll know that getting there can sometimes be half the battle. The new Exhibition Station will change that by offering:
Easier Access
Forget battling traffic or hunting for parking. Visitors will be able to step straight from the train to the showgrounds, saving time and making the experience far more enjoyable, especially for families with kids.
Year-Round Transport for Events
The RNA Showgrounds host markets, expos, concerts, and events throughout the year, not just the Ekka. With the station open all year, Brisbane locals and tourists alike will have a smoother connection to some of the city’s biggest events.
Accessible for Everyone
With lifts, escalators, and accessible pathways, the new station will be much more inclusive for elderly visitors, families with prams, or anyone with mobility needs.
Link to the Future
It ties in with Brisbane’s future-focused infrastructure boom ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, making it part of the city’s long-term vision for modern, connected public transport.
What Will It Mean for your Ekka Experience?
For visitors in 2025, the Ekka experience will start on the platform. No more queues for shuttle buses or long walks from distant car parks. Hop off the train, hear the call of the showbag pavilion, and follow your nose to the fairy floss.
And for regional visitors coming from further afield, connecting services will mean an easier ride into the heart of Ekka action.
Planning Your 2025 Visit
- Use the Queensland Rail journey planner to find direct routes to Exhibition Station closer to the date.
- Consider off-peak arrival times to beat the biggest crowds on weekends.
- Pair your Ekka visit with other nearby Brisbane experiences—Fortitude Valley’s dining scene is just a stroll away.
In Summary
The new Exhibition (Ekka) Train Station will transform how visitors experience Brisbane’s iconic agricultural show. Faster, easier, more comfortable access—plus the bonus of year-round benefits for locals and tourists attending events at the RNA Showgrounds.
So when August rolls around and the smell of strawberry sundaes fills the air again, you’ll be able to get there in comfort, with time to spare for an extra showbag.
See you at the Ekka! 🚂🍦🎠