GLOUCESTER celebrates its 100th show this Friday and Saturday.
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From humble beginnings, the show grew to become the social event of the year drawing crowds from near and far as a platform for what the region has to offer.
The first show was held at the ‘Homestead’ in 1908 and, while the centenary was celebrated in 2008, cancellations through war and various weather events meant Gloucester was still six years away from celebrating its actual 100th show.
The first show held at the current showground was in 1910.
The site was purchased for 225 pounds and the land continues to be owned and maintained by the Gloucester AH and P (Agricultural Horticultural and Pastoral) Society to this day.
It remains one of the few privately owned showgrounds in the country.
To celebrate the 100th show, organisers have scheduled several events to commemorate the historic occasion.
All judging, other than the cut flower and floral arrangements, will be completed on Thursday.
An interesting program of activities for school students will take place from 10am on Friday.
Students will be given a taste of show time both old and new.
The junior beef judging and parading will be a highlight.
Junior showgirl judging will take place later in the afternoon.
The ring will be busy on both days with a large number of campdraft entries on Friday.
Judging of horse and ring classes will take place on both days along with pony club musical rides and sporting events.
On Saturday, the poultry, beef and dairy cattle start early.
‘Gloucester Has Talent’ will entertain patrons throughout the day, with winning poetry read by Gabby Colquhoun.
The knitters have been sharpening their needles in preparation for the speed knitting competition.
Working dog trials, a novelty dog show, boot fashion parade and boot chuck, country challenge and hot chainsaws will all be held in the ring though the day.
Special entertainment will be provided by the Whiparoos and crowd favourites FMX Kaos motocross team before the demolition derby, fireworks and a performance by the Bowden Brothers brings the 100th show to a close.
