COATS, scarves and beanies were in the plenty over the weekend as families from across the region rugged up for the Mount Gambier A&H Society Spring Show.
Rallying behind the annual event, the community flocked to the showgrounds on Friday and Saturday, with over 11,000 people making their way through the gates, eager to see what was on offer.
From rides, sideshows and animals to favourite show treats dagwood dogs and fairy floss, show society president Kerry Hill said it was a successful show with something for everyone.
“We had great support from the community, the traders were happy and with a number of new acts we have received many positive comments,” she said.
“While some people did notice sideshow alley was a bit smaller this year, there were no big waiting queues and people even got longer rides.”
Mount Gambier siblings Brady and Evany Rex did not seem to mind the smaller number of sideshow attractions, stocking up on prizes throughout the day.
“Sideshow alley is definitely my favourite thing to do at the show – it is really fun and you can win some great prizes,” Brady said.
Growing each year, Ms Hill said the speed shear contest was very popular with people from across the country and overseas taking part.
“A lot of the competitors came from New Zealand and Western Australia, which was really great to see,” she said.
“The first place winner managed to shear the sheep is 23 seconds, which I think would have been a record for this show and attendees really enjoyed watching the competition.”
Impressed with the level of competition in the different sections, Ms Hill said it was great to see an increase in entrants.
“Particularly in the cookery section we had an abundance of people taking part, including many in the junior section,” she said.
“I am pleased to see this skill is not being forgotten.”
With a range of people of different ages enjoying the festivities, Ms Hill said they have a better idea of what to include in future shows.
“We want to make sure there is something for everyone and have already started making bookings for certain acts for the next two years,” she said.
“We are also always on the lookout for more volunteers or, if you don’t want to volunteer, feel free to give us feedback and suggestions to improve and add to the show.”
Email mgshow@seol.net.au to provide feedback to the Mount Gambier A&H Society.
