Perfect weather, solid crowds and a record number of entries helped make the 100th Loxton Show one of the best yet.
Loxton Show committee member Taryn Mangelsdorf said the 100th Show, held on the October long weekend, found itself in a unique position without a show hall.
“Typically all exhibits are displayed with the Recreation Centre on the Loxton Sporting Grounds however this was demolished following the 2018 Show to make way for a new $14m sporting complex,” she said.
“This building is still under construction, however it did not stop the Show Committee from thinking outside the square to make this show the best yet. The Show Society has had a special working group for the past 18 months, planning a complete redesign for the grounds in conjunction with the Loxton Waikerie Council.
“All remaining buildings on the grounds changed purpose, every section was shuffled around and significant works were undertaken to make beautiful Show halls across the grounds. The amount of work this took did not go unnoticed, with hundreds of volunteer hours contributing to make this Show one to remember.”
Taryn said the success of the 100th Loxton Show, despite the obstacles, showed that everything doesn’t have to be perfect to have a great Show.
“And long-term planning, thinking outside the square, and good communication with the Show family, local council and community, goes a long way to building a successful event.”
Taryn’s comments were echoed by the Federal Minister for Barker, Tony Pasin MP, who commented in his speech at the 100th Show Celebratory Dinner that “buildings don’t make the Show, the people do”.
Other highlights of this year’s show included the Australian Sheaf Tossing Championships, with competitors attending from across Australia, and the Yard Dog Trial competition, which was fiercely fought out between local talent.
“The 8th Annual Nippy’s Young Farmer Challenge was a crowd pleaser, highlighting the area’s local produce and farming talents. The Loxton High School Team won the relay event and qualified for the State Final at the Royal Show in 2020,” Taryn said.
“This was made even more special by the fact that Loxton High School Agricultural Teacher and Co-Convenor of the cattle section, Justine Fogden, was recently named SA High School Teacher of the Year.”
Taryn said she was positive about the future of country shows like the Loxton Show.
“Following an era of tough times and community groups feeling volunteer fatigue, it feels like country shows in South Australia are entering a new chapter,” she said.
“Country Shows initially began to celebrate local produce and bring people together, and this is none more important than in years of drought, and the local community certainly responded this year.”