Generations of Jarretts help keep the Bangalow Show spirit alive

WHEN Hollie Jarrett’s name is called out as she competes in the campdraft at this year’s Bangalow Show, her surname will be familiar to many in the audience.

Five generations of the Jarrett family — who even have an arena at the Bangalow Showground named in their honour — have been involved in the annual agricultural show.

Hollie’s great-great-grandfather Tom Jarrett arrived in the district from Nowra as a cattle drover in the early 1900s, purchasing a property at Talofa in 1910. He was a generous supporter of the show, often loaning his cattle for the steer competition.

“Pop remembers when he was around ten years old Tom betting someone five bob that they couldn’t ride one of his steers,” Hollie said.

Her grandfather Kevin’s sister Joyce was a champion sewer, and the younger generation continues the family’s show tradition, competing in paddock, pony and pavilion events.

Hollie herself was named Young Woman of the Show in 2009, later representing the region at state level in Sydney. Her cousin Ellie Schneider followed in her footsteps, taking out the same honour in 2022.

“The family has put so much into the show over the years, it’s very sentimental,” Hollie said.

“It’s the one day of the year when you catch up with everyone who’s been in your life since you were born.”

This year’s Bangalow Show — themed “Boots” — will be held on November 14 and 15.

Friday’s program features working dogs, dairy cattle, horse events, the campdraft and a pet parade.

On Saturday, spectators can enjoy showjumping, woodchopping and Eljay’s Junkyard Comedy and Stunt Show, along with favourites such as the dog high jump and the return of the crowd-pleasing lawnmower race after its 2024 hiatus.

The show will culminate in the thrilling Stockman Ironman Competition and a fireworks finale.

Across both days, visitors can explore Sideshow Alley, meet baby animals, see Stan Ceglinski’s woodworking displays and enjoy the reptile show and bush poetry.

The Tart of the Show this year is a raspberry cheesecake, while the CWA will be serving Devonshire Teas in the Scout Hall from 9am to 12pm each day.