One of the New England’s most enduring community fixtures will return next weekend, with the Glen Innes Show set to once again fill the showgrounds with livestock, food, colour and crowds.
Now more than 150 years old, the Show remains firmly grounded in agriculture while continuing to evolve, and one of its fastest-growing drawcards, the Gourmet Fiesta, is expected to draw strong interest again this year.
Adding to the line-up is a visit from Australia’s self-appointed Lambassador, Sam Kekovich, who will headline a weekend celebrating New England lamb and beef.
Gourmet Fiesta organiser Belinda Norton said bringing Kekovich to Glen Innes was a highlight for the committee.
“The best thing this year is having Sam Kekovich coming to Glen Innes as our Lambassador,” she said.
“We’re showcasing Milly Hill lamb and beef from Rangers Valley Station, but honestly, the lamb and having Sam here is the most exciting part.”
The Gourmet Fiesta has become a key feature of the Show program, layering celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, tastings and market stalls over the traditional agricultural base, with a strong focus on local producers.
Familiar face Matt Golinski will return across Friday and Saturday, presenting live cooking demonstrations, gourmet lunches and school sessions. Saturday will again include the popular auction of Rangers Valley Station beef alongside local produce.
Gourmet Fiesta president Sal Molesworth said the event’s strength lay in the sense of connection it created.
“The Glen Innes Show is so special for our community because everyone comes along with a real sense of belonging,” she said.
“When visitors arrive, they feel that straight away, and that’s something really powerful.”
Committee member Phil Lynn said local food remained central to the Fiesta.
“All the stalls feature great local New England food, which is why we’ve brought them together to showcase our region,” he said.
“This year we’re celebrating lamb and beef, and it’s a great reminder that agriculture is still at the heart of Glen Innes.”
Mike Norton said the long-term benefits for small businesses were significant.
“Over the life of Gourmet Fiesta, we’ve had more than 350 businesses through the stalls, which is a huge boost for local small businesses,” he said.
“We’re a progressive community that still holds onto the good bits, and that’s what visitors love, great food and gourmet lunches made by our dedicated volunteers.”
“Where else can you get a gourmet meal for $18?”
Beyond the food, the Show itself will run across 39 sections, including livestock, horses, folk art and pavilion displays. Volunteer Annette Bain said the event continued to resonate across generations.
“For a lot of people, it’s the show they remember from childhood, full of beautiful memories,” she said.
“But it’s not stuck in the past. It reflects what country life looks like today, in 2026. We couldn’t still be here if we weren’t moving forward.”
The first two days will feature a full ring program with livestock judging and horse events, including showjumping. Friday will host the official opening, Saturday the Grand Parade at around 4 pm, and Sunday will wrap up with campdrafting, the pet show and family activities. Fireworks will close each evening at 9 pm.
The Glen Innes Show runs 13, 14, and 15 February at the Glen Innes Showgrounds. For schedules and ticket information, visit gleninnesshow.com or follow Gourmet Fiesta Glen Innes on Facebook.
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