December 5th, 2024Daylesford Show celebrates 150 years

The 150th Daylesford and District Agricultural Show at the Daylesford Showgrounds in Victoria Park on November 23 proved to be the most successful for some years.

Advertising, sponsorships from local businesses, a very hardworking committee, a small army of teal clad volunteers and near perfect weather combined to make a great day for the big crowd of over 3250 who came through the gate.

The newly named David Yoxall Poultry Pavilion, the main pavilion, the Tom Ford Pavilion and the Rijk Zwaan Hall of Flowers were all buzzing with visitors and exhibitors on Saturday.

There was something for everyone with hours of horse events on the oval, the usual rides and carnival stalls and 27 local stalls, selling an impressive range, including local foods and beverages.

The shade sail area was used as a music venue for local singing and music groups under the direction of show society secretary Rosemary McLean.

The Hall of Flowers held the biggest flower show in Daylesford for 25 years with magnificent displays from Spring Park Nursery, The Friends of Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens and the Daylesford Horticultural Society.

On the main arena there were seven different horse rings operating along with showjumping. The premier showjumping award, the Catherine King Trophy, was won by Stuart Walker of Bacchus Marsh.

RDA also had its biggest turnout in many years. This show, the 150th held in 160 years, was one of the best and a tribute to all of the volunteers, helpers, competitors and officials taking part this year, along with everyone who has helped with the show over past years.

Words: Don Harvey | Images: Richard ‘Tommy’ Campion