Country charm: Crowds flock back to Maleny Show ...
Pics by Cameron Outridge and Marsha Fotografie
Maleny Show spirit ... Junior Stewards who worked tirelessly over the two days in the Unofficial Jumping Ring are, from left, Brooke Wild, Liam Wild, Ebony Corkin, Ruby Wild and Rylee Wild.
This year’s Maleny Show marked the 100th anniversary of the first Show which was held in June 1923, and it was a record breaking event that entertained in excess of 10,000 people over the two days.
“Tickets sold extremely well beforehand, and in particular, were purchased by families for the Bluey and Bingo performance on Saturday,” said Show President, Winston Johnston.
Thanks to the huge line up of first-class exhibits, entertainment and glorious weather, feedback from participants and attendees alike, was overwhelmingly positive.
“It really was a fantastic event for families and as well as locals and visitors from the coast, we had a large attendance of families of life members,” Mr Johnston said.
“Our VIPs, life members and special guests enjoyed a historic video about the Show and its beginnings.
“We had the largest number of beef and dairy cattle in many years and a very large representation of Show jumpers. The judges were astounded by the poultry exhibits and the extremely high standard of exhibits across the board. The fresh flowers and floral arrangements in particular, were incredible this year. The gate and bar figures were the highest in memory.”
A large number of trade displays and food vendors did very well at this year’s Show and the only hiccup was that the internet was patchy and let various people down during the weekend,” said Mr Johnston.
“We have spoken with Telstra about the issue and they have advised that next year they will bring a trailer with a booster network to the site, so we shouldn’t have that problem again.”
Internationally renowned horseman, Guy McLean, thrilled audiences with his show and the crowd enjoyed the spectacular fireworks display by KC Fireworks, which has become a much loved favourite event each year.
“Across the State, the Maleny Show is considered a premier agricultural Show and it would not be possible if not for the tireless efforts of our Show Society and volunteers,” Mr Johnston said.
“It takes six to seven days to set the grounds up and despite the rain, 70 volunteers turned up on Sunday and pulled it all back down again in less than a day.
“This year certainly proved that people still enjoy agricultural Shows and that they continue to play an important role in our community.”