Diamond art, Lego displays and pieces made from recycling along with a ‘strong’ equestrian program, including showjumping, will mark the 150th edition of the Armidale Show.
Taking place from 6-7 March at the Armidale Showground, volunteer organisers said this year’s event will maintain a balance between ‘tradition and contemporary entertainment’.
Laying claim as the first show on the Northern Tablelands, the Pastoral and Agricultural Society of New England was formed on 13 March 1865, according to the show’s website, before becoming the Armidale and New England Pastoral, Agricultural and Horticultural Association and holding the first ‘fair’ in February 1876.
The association used Market Square and Armidale Racecourse for the show before buying the the showground on Dumaresq Street at the turn of the 19th century, where the show has been held since that time.
Hollie Farmer, junior vice-president for the Armidale Show Society, said, ‘Generations of the same families have exhibited livestock, needlework and produce across decades. Seeing grandparents, parents and now grandchildren competing in the same pavilion classes is something special.
‘There have also been milestone moments – major upgrades to the showground, the introduction of large-scale entertainment acts, the evolution of the competition like the Young Woman and of course the way the show community adapted during droughts, fires and COVID.’
Farmer said these challenges have ‘reinforced how resilient and determined this community is.
‘In many ways, the most memorable moment happens every year at opening time – when the gates open and the crowd rolls in. That sense of continuity is powerful.’
Farmer pointed to continuity over change when listing some of the highlights of the show in recent years.
‘In recent years, major crowd favourites have included the demolition derby, live music entertainment, stunt performers and family-focused arena acts.
‘The pavilions are another standout. The displays are exceptional and often underestimated, and have evolved over the years as the Show and its community has evolved. Some of the craftsmanship and baking on display would rival state competitions,’ Farmer said.
‘The quality of livestock exhibited in Armidale consistently reflects the strength of the New England agricultural industry.’
And with show season in New England well underway, Farmer said Armidale’s show ‘sits alongside long-standing and respected shows such as Glen Innes, Guyra, Walcha, and others’ – but the ‘scale, facilities and strong university and regional centre base give (the Armidale show) a slightly broader reach.
‘What really sets (Armidale’s show) apart is its longevity and its role as a regional hub. Being the 150th show places it among a very small group of agricultural shows in NSW that have achieved that milestone. That history carries weight.’
And they’ve been sharing little bits of that fascinating history on their Facebook Page – as well as lots of tips for those competing and attending this years show of course.
As for the future? Farmer said the 150th anniversary of the show ‘isn’t just about celebrating the past – it’s about setting the show up for the next 50 years.
‘That means being adaptable, financially responsible, and community-driven’ – with Farmer naming the key priorities of focusing on youth volunteer pathways, engagement on digital channels, enhancing partnerships with sponsors, continuing ‘strong livestock and pavilion competitions’ and staying financially sustainable while adding entertainment options.
‘The future of the Armidale Show will be about balancing heritage with innovation’, Farmer said.
People can buy tickets at the gate or online.
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