New addition to historic country show

AGRICULTURAL shows usually conjure thoughts of cattle exhibitions and showbags, but this year, to attract a new audience, the show will also embrace popular culture.

Lismore Show president John Gibson said the show has been a part of Lismore’s history since 1885, and the last couple of years had experienced record-breaking numbers through the gate.

This year, with new inclusions such as PopZone, he is optimistic the event will draw big crowds.

“It’s shaping up to be a very good show,” Mr Gibson said.

“I can’t see any reason why, with what we’ve got on display here and the entertainment, why it should be any different.”

Marnie Bonner of the show society said the introduction of the pop culture aspect is a first for an agricultural show.

“It’s aimed at expanding inclusivity and diversity, and encouraging our youth to get involved,” Ms Bonner said. “Pop culture events are renowned for creating their own sub-community, where people develop confidence, they learn crafting skills, sewing skills, and find their tribe.”

Emily and Connor Mumford are relishing the chance to attend a cosplay event in the town where they live, having had to travel to Brisbane or Melbourne to participate in the past.

Mr Mumford said he became involved in cosplay through his wife Emma.

“We enjoy the freedom that it gives us, allowing us to really test out our crafting skills and take on the characters that we like the look of, and feel of, and being able to do in any way that you feel like,” he said.

“The fact that we can actually have a community and an event like this in our local area that we live in is fantastic and we’re glad to be a part of it.”

Traditional events such as the horse and cattle exhibitions and the produce displays will be back, as is the ever-popular sideshow alley.

Also returning will be more recent additions such as the circus, monster trucks, FMX bikes, the Lego competition, reptiles, jetpack, fireworks, community music stage and woodchop competitions.

Lismore mayor Steve Krieg said the showgrounds had never looked better than in the leadup to the show.

“There’s been a number of grants awarded to the showgrounds, and it is one of the best regional facilities in the country now to hold a show,” he said. “It’s one of the biggest regional shows in the country as well, so it’s well worth coming along and having a look.”

Cr Krieg said his favourite event was the led steer competition, but there was something at the show for the whole family.

The Elders Lismore Show is on from Thursday, October 17 to Saturday, October 19.