What’s Happening?
Queensland beef leader Terry Nolan has received the RNA’s highest honour, the 2026 Ekka Legend Award.
RNA President David Thomas presented the Nolan Meats Company director with the award at an Ekka reception on 11 August. Bank of Queensland presents the Royal Queensland Show, commonly known as the Ekka.
The award reflects Nolan’s long service to Ekka cattle competitions and Queensland’s beef sector.
Why It Matters
Nolan’s support for the Led Steer Competition has gone far beyond financial backing from Nolan Meat Company. He helped shape and promote the event as a showcase of cattle quality and industry connection.
His market knowledge aligned judging criteria with real-world specifications and processor needs. This work improved the competition’s integrity, teaching value and relevance across the beef supply chain.
By connecting producers, processors and markets, Nolan reinforced the competition’s paddock-to-plate purpose.
Local Impact
Queensland producers benefit from a competition that reflects the standards used by processors and commercial markets. The event also helps Brisbane audiences understand the modern beef value chain.
Nolan has supported schools and young exhibitors, encouraging their participation and connection with the industry. His work has strengthened links between the Ekka, regional producers and future beef leaders.
By The Numbers
Nolan’s service and the award’s history show the scale of his connection to the Ekka.
- For almost 50 years, Nolan has held a vital role in the Ekka’s beef cattle competitions.
- He helped establish the Led Steer Competition in 1979, then judged his first Show in 1989.
- The award was introduced in 2004, and only 19 people have received the RNA’s highest honour.
Zoom In
Nolan later judged many Ekka events, including Led Steer, Carcasses, Junior Judges, Prime Cattle and several Stud Breeds. He also helped make Led Steer an important meeting point for producers and the wider beef industry.
Mr Thomas said Nolan’s service captured the purpose of the award.
“Through his decades of involvement with the Ekka, Terry has made an outstanding contribution to the growth and success of the Led Steer Competition, while sharing his knowledge and expertise to support producers, exhibitors and the next generation of industry leaders. Across changing market conditions and industry cycles, Terry has remained a consistent advocate for the Ekka and its agricultural competitions, promoting their importance to Queensland’s rural sector.”
Zoom Out
The Ekka Legend Award recognises people who have made a remarkable contribution to the Royal Queensland Show.
This year’s Ekka celebrates its 150th anniversary, marking a Queensland tradition that began with the first Show in 1876. Organisers describe it as the state’s biggest and most loved event.
Since 1876, the Show has brought the country to the city and built shared community spirit. It also forms a significant part of Queensland’s social and cultural heritage.
What To Look For Next?
The 2026 Ekka runs from 8 to 16 August at Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills.
Gates open at 9am, and tickets are available through the official Ekka website. During the remaining days, Nolan’s honour may encourage more young exhibitors to form lasting industry connections.
