May 10, 2024
Old hands told newly elected Kingaroy Show Society president David Muller in January there was no way he could organise a show in just three months.
But last weekend proved the “experts” wrong … the Kingaroy Show went ahead as planned and has been hailed a success, despite the weather.
David took over as president of the Show Society on January 11, after months of turmoil within the ranks of the volunteer organisation.
He was told there was no way a show could be organised in time, but he said “sorry, we will”.
“I think that we proved that we did,” David said. “It was a lot of work in a very short time but we did it.”
David said the committee’s decision to bring the speedway back to the show on Sunday night was “most definitely” the right decision, with the crowd coming along “phenomenal”.
Cattle entries were down due to Beef Week in Rockhampton, but Pavilion entries were up, especially in the fresh produce.
David said he was also really happy with the support from the machinery displays.
The official opening on Saturday afternoon had to be shifted under cover due to the rain, but most other events went ahead as planned.
Queensland Ag Shows junior vice-president Monica Skerman, from Maleny, did the opening honours.
She congratulated everyone who had anything to do with organising the event.
“I got here in January and at that meeting there was not one thing organised for this show so I must congratulate you all for pulling together and doing such a wonderful job,” Monica said.
“When I came in this afternoon, I could not believe it.”
Ms Skerman particularly singled out the Pavilions for praise and she reminded the crowd of the importance of sponsors and volunteers.
“It would have to be one of the best pavilions I have seen,” she said.
“Without volunteers our Queensland ag shows won’t be here for much longer.”
The Grand Parade went ahead as planned after the opening, however, the wet weather did force the cancellation of the planned harness racing because of the state of the track.
David said the miniature horses were very popular, and the tractor pull – which also returned this year – was a hit.
Also popular were the stunt riders on pushbikes and motorbikes.
Equestrian events were disrupted by the rain on Saturday but resumed on Sunday morning to complete their competitions.
David said that overall he was happy with the way the show went, although attendance numbers were still to be assessed.
And he was already looking forward to next year!
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