GLOUCESTER cemented its reputation as the fireworks capital of the Mid North Coast with a spectacular display to finish this year’s Gloucester Show.
A couple of short storms didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd at this year’s event.
Friday 20 March was mostly kids’ day for the local school children, but it was also a time of judging the exhibits in the wide variety of entries – highlighting the skill and creativity of the area.
Saturday featured the main show program, attracting large crowds for a full day of ring events and entertainment.
A wide range of attractions made sure that there was something for all ages.
Popular events included post splitting, the dog high jump, a reptile show, and the ever-popular animal nursery.
Five-year-old Banjo visited the show on Friday with his kindergarten class, and then again with his family on Saturday evening.
“My favourite things were the hula hoop lady, the man cooking a loaf of bread over a fire, and I saw a serious animal at the end,” said Banjo.
“It was a snake, a poisonous one, and it was really long, but I didn’t get to touch it because it was poisonous.
“We saw swans, we saw wild pigs, we saw hamsters, we saw bunnies and we saw a turkey and some chickens.
“I went with Mum and Dad and watched the demolition derby. The one that won had flames in it, and it was kind of noisy, and they tried to crash into each other.
“The fireworks went really high, and one was like a flower.”
The official opening and grand parade were on Saturday afternoon and showcased horses, vintage machinery, old cars and cattle.
Greg Channon, President of the Gloucester AH&P Association, which organises the show, was delighted with how things went this year.
“We had a good crowd this year and the weather was good – no gumboots needed – and we didn’t have to cancel anything,” said Greg.
“The motor bike guy who did tricks in the ring was a new event and was very popular, as were the new dog trials.
“People told me that the fireworks were the best we’ve ever had, and the demolition derby was really good.”
By John WATTS
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