Rural show unites farmers
The country’s economy may not rely as heavily on the export price of a sheep’s hindquarters as in the past but rural A and P shows still help bridge the gap between town and country, organisers say.
The 144th annual Marlborough A and P Show comes to town on November 4-5 for two days of parades, animal judging, competitions, exhibitions, demonstrations and displays.
The show signalled the start of summer agricultural events in the upper South Island as farmers and townspeople rub shoulders and chew the fat over the state of the nation.
Marlborough A and P Show vice-president Chris Bowron the annual event still had an important part to play in the primarily rural district.
Contact between town and country remained important for both sectors for helping retain the relevance of farming, and the traditional values the rural sector still holds, he said.
‘‘As well the show lets a lot of people from non-farming backgrounds keep up to play with what is happening in the rural sector.’’
A and P Show secretary Heather Clelland said the annual event was still a much anticipated weekend among Marlborough residents.
‘‘A lot of people still like to show their animals in the ring, and this year there has been an upsurge in the number of exhibitors wanting to enter,’’ Clelland said.
‘‘It’s encouraging that we have had more exhibitors coming through wanting to be involved this year than in previous years.
‘‘There’s a huge amount of commitment shown by exhibitors to have their animals ready to show when the amount of preparation from grooming, washing is taken into account.
‘‘Many consider it an honour to be able to show their animals in top condition.’’
Judges from around the country will pass their eyes over 75 sheep, more than 200 horse and pony showjumping and ring class entries, plus a large number of dairy and beef cattle to pick the best of the breed in the ring, she said.
Smaller numbers of poultry, small animals, such as puppies, lambs, guinea pigs and llamas, will also feature. Up to 66 dogs are entered in the dog trial section while terrier owners can enter their pets along on a leash in the highly charged terrier race, Clelland said
Horse and pony ring competitors are eligible for the Horse of the Year event in Hastings.
The competition will be held alongside the Grand Parade on Saturday.
There will also be competitive shearing and fencing, and regional Young Farmer of the Year events, farrier demonstrations, rescue helicopter service, educational opportunities, vintage and farm machinery displays, trade exhibits, conservation and work- place health and safety promotions, and cookery and home craft stalls.
‘‘We’ve also added a blokes cooking competition this year as well for any guys wanting to show their skills in the kitchen,’’ Clelland said.
Christchurch chef Richard Till, and children’s author Craig Smith are also booked to appear. As many as 8000 people are expected at the show during the two days.
Friday set down as a school’s day, and Saturday held over for family picnics.
‘‘Grab is your sunscreen, and picnic lunch and enjoy a day experiencing the best of rural life,’’ Clelland said.