It is only a day away from the Killarney Annual Show on February 18–20 yet preparations have been made over several months.
Killarney Show and Rodeo Society Inc has a new management committee with 11 members consisting of town planners and financial planners, builders and saw millers, young girls and retirees.
Shirley Ballard returned to the committee. Also of benefit to the committee is the experience of show circuit stalwart and local pony breeder, Cheryl Bradford, who is ring steward.
The committee has used their skills and contacts to collectively attend to overdue maintenance and administration, seeking funding and sponsorship, attracting new members, planning and hosting a variety of rural and recreational events.
Volunteers from school age children to 93-years-olds have been busy painting, mowing and catering.
The Campdraft yards have been rebuilt and a new horse wash bay is finished.
The purple, black and silver ‘Star-Struck’ Show Ball was held on February 12. Treasurer Trudy Grant said, “We were pleased that our show ball featured 15 show girls who were busy fundraising with bowls days, discos and raffles over several months.
“Killarney is in for some exciting surprises at this year’s show!” President Mrs Sonya Carr said. “We have chainsaw events, reptile exhibits, horse-and-cart rides, agricultural displays, alternative therapies and packed evening programs.
“Besides the grand parade, pet parade, side shows, dog shows, stalls, bars, fireworks, motorbike and motorbikes, car derbies, we are excited by a five-ring program of equestrian events rather than the usual four on Saturday,” Mrs Carr said.
“The beginners’ ring is a huge attraction which is sure to entice very young riders this year.”
A new feature of the Killarney Show will be a mix of professional and local entertainers including piano players, harmony singers, choirs, a jazz ensemble and country music artists in a new stage area under a marquee all day on Show Saturday.
“Come early and catch up with old acquaintances and new arrivals,” Mrs Carr said.
“The Show Society is honoured that the head of the Australian Army, Lt Gen Ken Gillespie is coming especially to open this year’s show,” she said.
“We welcome visitors to celebrate with us one of Australia’s great community traditions. We just need support and members,” Mrs Carr said.
