Jeparit Show shines despite windy conditions

Jeparit’s annual show went ahead in fine form on Sunday, October 19, drawing around 250 attendees from across the region and beyond.

By Tayyaab Masroor

Lachie Cossor picked out Tanya from Hopetoun to be a cow as part of his show. SEE MORE PHOTOS on PAGE 5.

Jeparit’s annual show went ahead in fine form on Sunday, October 19, drawing around 250 attendees from across the region and beyond.

Despite a forecast high of 33 degrees, the weather turned out pleasant, with overcast skies keeping temperatures in the 20s, though strong winds posed a challenge.

Jeparit A&P Society president, and one of the organisers, Bec Schultz, declared the show a success.

“The day was mostly overcast, which kept the temperature in the 20s,” she said.

“The wind was high, which wasn’t ideal, but patrons embraced the day with their attendance.

“The show overall was a great success.”

There was no shortage of entries across the event, with strong participation in the Horse Section, Ladies Pavilion, Photography and Art, Livestock and Poultry categories.

Market stalls offered a variety of goods, and “by all accounts were well supported along with the show bag caravan,” Ms Schultz said.

Attendees came not only from Jeparit but also from neighbouring towns, including Rainbow, Nhill, Warracknabeal, Dimboola and Horsham, with some travelling from as far as Warrnambool and Ballarat.

"A mix of attendees, local, regional, and within the state, to some from SA," she said.

Highlights of the day included the Outback Show, Fairdinkum Fauna, Professor Wallace and his puppets, the Car and Motorbike Show, the whip-cracking competition and display, and a bustling horse section.

“Many highlights were received from feedback,” Ms Schultz said.

“People enjoyed Lochie’s Outback Show, as it was fun and engaging.”

Families and children found plenty to enjoy with activities such as the animal nursery featuring miniature goats and chickens, games and popcorn run by the Hindmarsh Shire Youth group, and additional amusements provided by the Showman’s Guild.

Visitors also had plenty to eat and drink, with an array of food and beverage options from local businesses, including the A&P Society luncheon, Desert Rose Catering, Chris and Ann’s Quick Bites, Lots of Laughter Coffee Van, Big Bertha and the Casterton Gin Distillery.

Ms Schultz also shared a heartfelt message for everyone involved.

“I would personally like to thank the dedicated A&P Committee, volunteers, judges and stewards for all their hard work and countless hours that contribute to the success of our show,” she said.

“Please feel free to contact us with feedback or ideas for future shows and if anyone would like to join our growing A&P Committee, we’d love to hear from you.”

Interested people can contact Jeparit A&P Society via email at jeparitshow@hotmail.com.