THE rain and mud failed to stop hundreds of district residents from attending this year’s scaled down Kerang Show.
Although there was no horse, sheep, cattle or poultry judging and many of the scheduled activities, including the pet show, animal nursery, solo aircraft aerobatic display, harness racing and an emergency services display had to be cancelled, there was still enough fun and activity to keep patrons amused.
Kerang District Agricultural Society was forced to call of much of the show because of the weekend downpour which saturated Alexandra Park.
It is believed to be the first time since about 1933 that the show could not proceed as scheduled.
In that year the show was postponed for a fortnight because of extensive flooding throughout the district, which closed many roads and forced people to carry out flood-banking work.
The highlight of this year’s scaled down show was undoubtedly the magnificent pavilion.
Most successful exhibitor in the pavilion was Mrs Audrey Wood of Kerang, who had more than 80 entries including preserves, jam, herbs, booking, homecrafts, pickles, relish and sweets.
Mrs Wood said her mother, Mrs Ida Peacock now 97, had submitted entries to the show for 74 years without missing a year.
She said that when her mother moved into Northaven hostel for the elderly, she decided to continue on the family tradition.
“Dad always said you should put something in the show,” Mrs Wood said.
“I’ve entered things for as long as I can remember.”
Champion art exhibit was a pastel drawing of a teddy bear, done by Mrs Gail Ryland, of Kerang. Mrs Ryland was presented with her championship trophy by trophy donor, Mrs Pat Ibbs.
Champion rose was exhibited by well-known show entrant, Mr Frank Holmes, of Barham with a yellow and pink fancy or bi-color rose.
The Nan Brayn Perpetual Memorial Trophy for jams and jellies was won by Maisie Connelly, of Kerang for a jar of grapefruit feel and pulp marmalade.
Apart from the pavilion, the showgirl judging took place on Monday night, with Kerang hairdresser, Caroline Moore winning the main title, The Weekly Times Country Showgirl Quest.
As well there were a limited number of showbag and refreshment stands, sideshows and trilling rides which were well patronised on Monday and Tuesday despite the sloppy conditions.
