The Murwillumbah Show in fine form

THE Murwillumbah Show drew strong crowds last weekend despite weather warnings.

From show jumping and stud beef displays to motocross, woodchop competitions, heritage exhibits, circus acts and sideshow alley fun, the rural community came out in force to celebrate local farmers, producers and agricultural industries.

While late rain dampened a few events, it didn’t dampen spirits. Organisers said the entire program ran in full.

“Some people did leave early, but we had the full gamut. Nothing was cancelled,” Murwillumbah Show president Meredith Dennis said.

“The motorbikes, the fireworks and horse events still happened.

“We were very happy, and the feedback we received from the community has been fantastic.

“We brought a few things forward, and while numbers were down slightly, it all went on wonderfully.”

Meredith said the whole community contribution and response was heartening, with too many highlights to mention them all.

“The live music was fantastic this year and the cattle were great; that’s been growing every year, because for quite a few years we didn’t have it,” she said.

“The girl who won is a champion, and she’s 15 and has her own stud, which she’s worked on for four years.

“Pat McDonald had his beautiful jerseys, and after 60 years of being a dairy farmer, he’ll still be back.”

Working with a large group of volunteers and community organisations is crucial for any agricultural show, and Dennis was quick to point out supporters.

“Elfords Electrical spent two days before the show with their whole staff, doing all the setup. They do the electricals, but also a lot of other work for free, which is, and they’ve been here today, packing up,” she said.

“Our other sponsors have been amazing, IGA, Taylor’s Corner and the local butchers AB and Blue Ribbon all donated cash and goods and Work and Country sponsored the rodeo on Friday night.

“It’s great to have all the schools involved, and we want to really encourage young people to get involved, so that the young ones can come and help us older ones out.”

In her third year at the helm of a board of 10, Dennis said the show was working hard to bring back the rural aspects.

“It’s great for kids to know all about where their food comes from,” she said.

“There was a great family atmosphere, and I’m always asking people to tell me what they thought because we really want to know, even the negatives.

“A lot of the shows are struggling because of the cost of living, but we’ve been lucky and we’ve managed to dodge the worst of the storms.”