SHOW season is up and running in the Upper Hunter.
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And, despite the windy weather, visitors were in good numbers on Saturday at the Merriwa Showgrounds for the 2017 Regional Australia Bank Merriwa Springtime Show.
In a celebration of the town’s rich agricultural history – pristine show cattle, sheep, poultry and produce were all on display giving onlookers plenty to see.
As in previous years the Young Farmer Competition proved to be a highlight, with this years’ top place and $1000 prize money going to Jake Wiencke from Cassilis.
Although show-goers will have to wait until 2018 for the next Merriwa showgirl competition – last years’ winner and the 2017 The Land Sydney Royal Showgirl Maisie Morrow welcomed visitors by opening the show.
“The show has always been a place to bring the community together,” Maisie Morrow said at the official opening ceremony on Saturday.
“And, it’s still thriving – we have every right to be proud of the show this year,” she said.
Along with the more traditional events were some new acts – with motorbike stuntman Epic Daren and lawnmower races kicking up plenty of dust and adding to the overall atmosphere.
And, for those who love craft – the Fairfax Pavilion was overflowing with hundreds of entiries of photography, horticulture, preserves, cooking and needle work from Merriwa and Cassilis students.
Show president Pat Ryan also commended the fundraising effort from the Merriwa Pastoral, Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Association ball held on August 26.
A sum of $15,000 was raised for the Where There’s A Will Foundation – supporting and raising awareness of the significant mental health issues facing the Hunter community and beyond.
”It’s an amazing effort, and thank you to all of our sponsors and volunteers for their time and effort in putting together another successful show,” he said.