The recently held Casino Truck Show was a resounding success, exceeding expectations in attendance, engagement, and community support, and reaffirmed its role as the biggest truck show in Australia, one of the greatest in the southern hemisphere, and a cornerstone of the local events calendar.

Celebrating its 12th year, the NCP Casino Truck Show has grown into a vibrant and well-attended event, which attracts thousands of visitors, exhibitors, and transport professionals from across the country, and from New Zealand.

In a report tabled at last night’s Richmond Valley Council meeting, it was evident the NCP Casino Truck Show played a critical role in supporting local businesses, creating tourism opportunities, and celebrating the essential work of the transport industry, which is the lifeblood of the country’s economy - particularly in regional Australia.

This year’s event was held over two days, Friday 1 August and Saturday 2 August, and attracted around 43,000 attendees. The inclusion of Friday Night Lights – an amazing display of big, bright rigs in the Casino CBD, as well as live entertainment, proved a winning formula as people from all walks of life took to the streets to check out the hundreds of trucks on display.

Spokesman for the volunteer organising committee, Darren Goodwin, said this success would not have been possible without the generous support of the Casino Truck Show’s sponsors.

Mr Goodwin said their contributions ensured high-quality entertainment, marketing, and overall experience for both exhibitors and attendees.

He said sponsors not only provided financial backing but also demonstrated their commitment to the growth and sustainability of the trucking industry and the local economy.

“Ongoing sponsorship is essential to the continued success of the NCP Casino Truck Show,” Mr Goodwin said.

“As the event grows in popularity and scale, so too do the operational costs and logistical demands.

“Continued investment from corporate sponsors, government bodies, and industry stakeholders will help maintain the high standards of the event while allowing for future innovation and expansion.”

Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said the event delivered a significant boost to the local economy, with a notable increase in activity for the local hospitality and retail sectors.

Mr Macdonald said the event’s success proved it was a legitimate and significant economic driver not only for Casino and the Richmond Valley, but also for the wider Northern Rivers region, with local accommodation providers booked out months in advance.

He said attendees responding to a post-event survey reported overnighting in Byron Bay, Murwillumbah, Ballina, Lismore, Nimbin, Kyogle, Grafton, and Ulmarra.

“With the NCP Casino Truck Show attracting thousands of visitors, exhibitors, and industry professionals each year, its reputation as a key economic driver for the wider region is growing,” Mr Macdonald said.

“This premier event not only showcases the latest in transport technology and innovation but also stimulates local business across hospitality, retail, accommodation, and tourism sectors. 

“By generating substantial direct and indirect economic activity, the NCP Casino Truck Show plays a vital role in supporting jobs, encouraging investment, and promoting regional growth.”

Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow said free entry and free family activities were at the heart of the NCP Casino Truck Show, ensuring everyone in the community could enjoy the event regardless of their financial situation. 

“By removing barriers to participation, we create an inclusive, welcoming space where families can connect, children can explore, and the spirit of community can thrive,” Cr Mustow said.

“This commitment to accessibility helps us celebrate our shared interests and traditions while making lasting memories for all ages.”

The record-breaking success of the 2025 NCP Casino Truck Show will flow onto important community organisations. The auction of a custom-made 2.4m x 2.4m bar, donated by Lionel Moore Trailers Pty Ltd, and a 16-inch air cans canister kit, including stainless-steel bowl and double filter system, donated by Air Cans Australia, raised $26,000.

The successful bidder was Jon Kelly, from Heavy Haulage Assets, and the money will be shared between not-for-profit groups Get Yourself Checked ($12,000), Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service ($4000), Flanno for a Farmer ($4000), Casino Youth Hub ($2000), CFD Foundation ($2000), and St Mary’s Primary ($2000).