Ekka
This time of year (early - mid August) is the Brisbane "Ekka".
What does the word "Ekka" mean?
"Ekka" is a short slang form of the word "exhibition". Aussies love to shorten words. I think it is because we live in a fairly informal society and this is expressed through our word choices.
The Ekka celebrates the Royal Queensland Show, which is an agricultural show. It's when "the country comes to the city" and there are competitions for the best cows, sheep, chickens, and other farmyard animals. There is also a place to view new agricultural equipment and see industrial farm technology. In addition to this, there are woodchopping competitions, equestrian (horse) events and animal parades.
Two of the main "non-agricultural" attractions are the "show bags" and "side-show alley". Show bags are bags of commercial merchandise and samples, and can be purchased at the Showbag Pavilion for any price from $1 and up. Some of the most popular show bags are ones containing chocolate.
Side-show alley is the name for the area where the side-shows happen; that is where you can enjoy exciting fairground rides such as a ferris-wheel or big swing, or try your luck at smaller games or competitions to win a prize.
Other words that Australians like to shorten in a similar form to "Ekka" (ending in -a) include:
- barra = barramundi (a type of fish)
- cuppa = cup of tea
- Macca's = McDonalds
- the Gabba = Woolloongabba Stadium in Brisbane
- doona = duvet/quilt (this is a trademarked name, from the Old Norse word "dunn" = down feathers)
I'm sure there are many more. Do you know any others?
