June 18, 2017
A special limited edition book which recalls the past 99 Wondai Shows was launched last week, and is now available to the public.
The book was put together by Wondai AP&I Society secretary Noreen Brier over the past year.
Noreen researched the Society’s records and old newspapers, and also used photographs, anecdotes and memories shared by people who’d had a connection with the Society over the past century to put the 72-page publication together.
The book records that the first Wondai Show was held on May 10-11, 1911.
The date was chosen because they were the two nights closest to a full moon, ensuring there was sufficient light for farmers to travel home in their horse-drawn vehicles.
During the following 106 years, only six shows were missed due to either drought, depression or war.
But today the Show Society is in good shape, and Noreen believes its longevity is largely due to the enthusiasm, dedication, perseverance and “sheer grit” of the Society’s members down through the years.
“We are an agricultural region and our local Shows have always played a big role in keeping us true to our traditions,” Noreen said.
“Times may have changed, and Shows have certainly changed right along with that, but the core of what our Shows do is as essential today as it was over a century ago.”
The new Wondai Show Centenary Book was launched at the annual South Burnett Sub-Chamber Dinner at the Wondai Diggers Club.
South Burnett Deputy Mayor Kathy Duff was invited to officially launch the book – which she did by cutting a pink ribbon – and said she was very honoured to be asked.
This week, stocks of the book became available at the Wondai Newsagency in Mackenzie Street, where they can be purchased for $10.
If any stocks remain, the books will also be on sale at this year’s 100th Wondai Show on September 1-2.
