Organisers all geared up for Mackenzie A&P Show
Thousands of people are expected to descend upon the Fairlie Showgrounds for the 119th Mackenzie A&P Highland Show today.
Preparations were under way yesterday as the first event, the sheep dog trials, kicks off from 7.30am today.
Further down the road, the Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band was busy rehearsing yesterday as it would perform throughout today before leading the grand parade at 2.30pm.
Band pipe major Ivon Hurst said the band played at the show every year since its inception 104 years ago.
‘‘It’s regarded as part of the scenery,’’ Hurst said. ‘‘You can’t divorce the two.’’
The band members dressed in Scottish Mackenzie tartan, a salute to their piping heritage. Although there probably would not be any sheep rustling, Hurst joked.
Mackenzie A&P Show committee secretary Jodi Payne said the show would offer ‘‘something for everyone’’. ‘‘My advice is to make sure you get here with enough time to see everything,’’ Payne said.
Daredevils on horseback will compete in the cowboy challenge, which is in its third year.
However, this year would be the first time the challenge finals would be held in the main ring, Payne said. Riders competed in a timed obstacle race with ‘‘a cowboy theme’’, she said.
There was no age limit, with the oldest competitor in their early 80s. ‘‘It’s a fun spectator sport.’’
Kiwi shearing legend Sir David Fagan will open the brand new $60,000 shearing pavilion at the showgrounds before giving spectators a taste of his skills.
More than 3800 entries had been received for the exhibits and competitions, which included photography, cooking, children’s art and vegetables.
‘‘The cooking section has almost doubled to 300 entries in the last couple of years,’’ she said.
The previous year had about 3400 entries, but many families decided to try their creative skills and enter, Payne said.
Author of the award winning ‘‘Wonky Donkey’’ Craig Smith will be performing for children, as well as other entertainers.
More than 400 sites will offer food and shopping throughout the day.
It was not a quick show to put together, taking about nine months to organise, she said.
Adult tickets are $15, while entry for students, aged between five and 15, is $5.
Children under five have free entry.
Parking at the event is also free.