THOUSANDS of people are expected to flow through the gates at the Mount Gambier Spring Show this Friday and Saturday with the massive event promising fine weather, daring rides, a spectacular fireworks display and traditional show entertainment.
Now in its 158th year, Mount Gambier Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Kerry Hill said this year’s diverse program boasted something for everyone.
“We are always on the lookout for something unique and we try to bring in a few new attractions each year so no one ever feels like they have seen it all before,” Ms Hill told The Border Watch yesterday.
“The committee spends so much time planning during the year so it is always very rewarding when the show weekend arrives and everything finally comes together.”
Given the sunny weather forecast, Ms Hill said she expectsed numbers through the gate would equal last year’s figures.
“We hope to have around the same number through the gates as last year – between 12,000 and 15,000 over the weekend,” she said.
While the show officially opens on Friday, more than 1500 primary school students will visit the agricultural learning centre before it opens to the public.
“Grant High School students help to manage the animals and we are really lucky to have agricultural science teacher Scott Cram to deliver the program,” Ms Hill said.
“Scott used to be involved with the royal shows and he presents really informative and fascinating shearing, milking and aquaculture demonstrations.”
Ms Hill said traditional exhibits in the main show hall – including arts, photography, cookery and cake decorating – would be judged today and tomorrow.
“We are really pleased with the number of entries we have had this year – we will have a wonderful display in the main hall,” she said.
“On Friday we will display the horticulture exhibits.”
For adrenaline junkies, sideshow alley will boast gravity-defying amusement rides, as well as games and stalls.
“The horse events always attract a big crowd and will include show jumping, hunts and hurdles and novelty events,” Ms Hill said.
“The speed sheering competition on Saturday has been extended to allow for a larger number of competitors and we will have sheep dog trials on Friday, yard dogs on Saturday and champion dog trials on both days.”
An array of tractors, vintage machinery and fire trucks will be displayed, as well as the Royal Flying Doctor Simulator.
A dazzling fireworks display will light up the city’s skyline on Saturday night.
