General News
13 November, 2023
Clunes Show to return for 160th edition after three years of cancellations
After being cancelled for three years in a row, Clunes’ flagship agricultural event is finally making its way back to the town this weekend — with a significant anniversary in tow. The 160th Clunes Show will get underway on Saturday, following...
After being cancelled for three years in a row, Clunes’ flagship agricultural event is finally making its way back to the town this weekend — with a significant anniversary in tow.
The 160th Clunes Show will get underway on Saturday, following two years of COVID-19 related cancellations in 2020 and 2021 after which it was impacted by heavy rains in 2022, making the long hiatus a first in the event’s history.
Putting an end to the prolonged disappointment, favourable conditions are expected for the 2023 iteration and volunteers along with committee members have been hard at work to make the day a massive success with a jam-packed program suitable for all ages.
Clunes and District Agricultural Society president Jenny Redpath said the day would have something for everyone.
“I’m very excited, this has been a long time coming and we’re looking forward to be back — it’s all systems go,” she said.
“It’s so amazing that we’re also celebrating 160 years of the show especially because throughout the years there were times where it looked like it was going to fold, but the committee stuck in and got through, so it’s been a great effort.
“This year is a testament to all that hard work and it will be amazing to attend — there’s a full complement of agricultural competitions, shearing displays, the dog high jump, local entertainment on the stage, a food and wine pavilion and more.”
This year, the show will feature a range of events and activities, including the inaugural Strongman Exhibition, an interactive grain arcade, Midlands Axemen Wood Chopping, and will also mark the 25th anniversary of its Bute Ute Competition.
Hoping to see around 6000 attendees, Ms Redpath said the Clunes Show was an important asset for the town.
“It’s extremely important that this event keeps happening because it brings us all together,” she said.
“There’s so many benefits from the show — we get people coming from all over the place and they stay here and buy from our businesses. It’s great because everyone, including locals groups and vendors, gets involved as well.
“I hope we see a good turnout and I think people should come not only for a great day out but to also support the show.”
The 160th Clunes Show will be held at the town’s showground on 54 Victoria Street from 9 am till 8 pm on November 18.
Admission is $15 for adults and this year, kids under 16 enter for free.
For more information about the event visit clunesshow.com.au or contact Jenny Redpath on 0400 613 153.