Showtime at Mount Rowan

THE first ever staging of the annual Ballarat Show at the new Mount Rowan Showgrounds begins today, Friday 7 November and runs until this Sunday 9 November.

The new livestock pavilion is hosting sheep, beef and dairy cattle throughout the keenly anticipated agricultural showcase.

“The cattle competition celebrates rural pride as breeders, farmers, and young handlers bring their best to the ring,” event co-ordinator with Ballarat Agricultural and Pastoral Society Jackie Kalogerakis said.

“From sleek dairy cows to powerful beef breeds, every animal is a showcase of care and craftsmanship.

The chance to get up close and personal with wildlife is among the many and varied attractions at the Ballarat Show. Photo: SUPPLIED

“The sheep competition features woolly wonders taking centre stage in one of the show’s most iconic traditions.

“It’s a chance to watch expert judges assess fleece quality and structure as passionate breeders and junior handlers showcase the best of the region.”

Ms Kalogerakis said the show’s new era promises something for everyone with diverse highlights ranging from the crowd-pleasing dachshund dash to this year’s Aussie FMX Freestyle Motocross feature and the newly introduced Comedy Duck Races.

“The lead-up to the Ballarat Show has been a massive team effort and we are confident it will be one of our biggest shows yet,” Ms Kalogerakis said.

“We are really trying to promote the fact that there will be lots of free activities for kids and that admission for kids aged 12 and under is free.

“But we are also encouraging a very agricultural side to the show. Ballarat is still an agricultural city.”

Ahead of the show, BAPS confirmed fireworks that had been planned for the opening evening were cancelled in response to local landholders concerns about impacts on livestock.

New era: Ballarat Agricultural and Pastoral Society event co-ordinator Jackie Kalogerakis with border collie luna ahead of the very first staging of the Ballarat Show at its new Mount Rowan home over 7 to 9 November. Photo: EVIE LAMB

They’re also keen to let showgoers know that a dedicated show shuttle bus is running from Wendouree Station to the showgrounds.

“We are very excited to be part of a new era of the showgrounds,” Ms Kalogerakis said.

“It’s a great attribute for Ballarat and it will enable Ballarat to hold bigger events including the show itself.”

Operated by BAPS, the new showgrounds were brought to life with help from a $5 million grant via Regional Development Victoria, and include the new 300-seat Event and Exhibition Centre.

The full program and details are at ballaratshow.org.au.