The Candelo Show returns for its 131st year this weekend, bringing the talents, treasures and tastes of the region together at the Candelo Showground.
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On Sunday, January 21, the Candelo Agricultural, Horticultural and Dairy Farmers Association will host a mix of agriculture and entertainment, providing a traditional country show experience.
Dairy cattle, commercial cattle, dairy goats and poultry will be put up for judging, as will fruit and vegetable produce.
Equestrian ring events, including show jumping competitions, will be conduced throughout the day.
In the Kameruka Pavilion, creations such as condiments, cakes, flowers and handicrafts will be displayed to catch the eye of visitors and judges alike.
Candelo Show secretary Gerard Gill said the pavilion was where the real competition took place.
“It’s been a real draw card for the show, it’s highly competitive in there, it’s really something” he said.
“Last year we had 1300 entries, so we’re expecting it to be packed again this year.”
Other displays include cooking, baking, home brewing, photography, art, crafts, floral art and woodwork.
The Candelo AH and DF Association encourage anyone with a talent in the categories to show their work, as exhibiting is the best way to support local shows.
Entry forms and guidelines are available on the Candelo Show website and close at 7pm on Thursday, January 18.
Show committees work all year to provide a venue for exhibitors and the success or failure of a show depends entirely on whether the community supports it.
There will be plenty of fun on offer for children, with a jumping castle, pony rides, portrait drawing and an animal nursery on the day. A $10 wristband will give children unlimited access to all children’s activities.
Children can also enter into the youth show competitions. Last year, Kameruka Pavilion chief steward John Coman said the large number of entries from children would ensure that the tradition of Candelo’s country show would long continue.
This year’s show will be opened by Bega MP Andrew Constance, who helped the Candelo AH and DF Association secure funding for a new awning to provide extra shade for visitors.
With a forecast of good weather, Mr Gill hopes to exceed last year’s numbers.
“We had about 1100 come last year, but we’ve build our reputation after the 130 year anniversary, so I think even more will pass through the gate this weekend,” he said.
Candelo Show tickets are $10 for adults, free for primary children, $2 for secondary children and $24 for a family pass. Gates open at 10am.