Overview
Rural Queensland has not had an easy year so far. First, there was severe flooding and drought, made all the worse by record prices for equipment, fuel and fertiliser, thanks to the ongoing cost of living crisis and fuel shortages stemming from the Iran War and the ensuing closure of the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane. All told, the year has wrought havoc on Queensland's agricultural industry and rural communities. If you want to do your part to help it all bounce back, this weekend, that's as easy as ordering a beer.
We do mean that literally, because 2026 marks the second year of The Great Shout, a statewide initiative from Great Northern Brewing Co., where every Great Northern ordered will send 50 cents to charity group Rural Aid, who'll pass it on to farmers and rural communities doing it tough. While over 200 venues will be taking part in The Great Shout, the centre of the action will be Suncorp Stadium — where the NRL Magic Round will draw footy fans (and pours of Great Northern) by the thousands.
Tiger Benji via Flickr
Last year's shout raised $300,000 in donations to Rural Aid, and this year, Great Northern is challenging Queenslanders to double that, with 500 kegs of Great Northern Super Crisp on their way to 200 pubs and clubs across the state so that everyone can do their bit to take part. If you can't make it out, or if you're more of a XXXX fan, you can still donate online via the Great Northern Brewing Co. website.
Queensland State Manager at Great Northern Brewing Co, Ian Giles, said, "Following the strong response last year, we're marking the return of the initiative in a bigger way with the ringing of the Great Northern beer bell at the Great Northern Precinct Bar outside Suncorp Stadium to officially kick off donations."
"When that bell rings at Magic Round, it's a reminder of what Aussies do best – shout a round and look after their own. Magic Round brings together passionate fans from all over the country, and it's the perfect moment to rally that energy in support of farmers who need it most."
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters added, "Farmers across rural Queensland are dealing with recent flooding, ongoing dry conditions and higher input costs, and it's putting real strain on farm businesses and household budgets. The Great Shout gives Australians a way to support farmers, with donations helping deliver practical assistance to rural communities facing tough conditions."
The Great Shout kicks runs from Thursday, May 14 to Sunday, May 17. For the full list of participating venues or to make a donation online, visit the website.