Shepparton showed out in huge numbers for the annual Shepparton Show.
On Friday, October 11 and Saturday, October 12, the showgrounds came alive with rides, stalls and games, with plenty of kids and families ready to soak up the fun.
The agricultural show has been a fixture in Shepparton since 1877, and this year featured a massive display, including miniature horses and pony judging, the youth cattle show, as well as mini and dairy goats on show.
One thing that was missing from the agricultural section was the poultry display.
Usually, it’s bustling with people and chooks, but due to the outbreak of bird flu in Australia and across the world, the Shepparton Agricultural Society made the decision to cancel the section.
Normally, you’d find Michelle Beamish held up inside the shed, but with the cancellation, she decided she’d take the chance to see the show and have a little fun.
“For once I actually get the chance to walk around,” she said.
While the usual display was absent, the building wasn’t empty, with lots of people flocking to the poultry shed to catch a glimpse of one feathered friend.
“We’re displaying birds that aren’t here because of the avian flu,” Ms Beamish said.
“We do have a live duck there called Crumpet, and because of the avian flu, we had to think outside the square so that people would still come and see the poultry.
“So I’m dressing up as a bird and walking around so people will actually come and see (the poultry shed).”
Many community groups and businesses also attended the show, setting up their own stalls.
Sirius College was one of them, with students selling a range of crafts and goods.
Year 5 student Maryam Sheriff and Year 6 student Sara Zaydi were two of the students who were there to sell their creations, which they had been working on all year.
Inside the McIntosh Pavilion, there were impressive horticulture displays, artwork from Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre, a miniature train display, highland dancing and the Tiny Tots competition and judging.
The Country Woman’s Association was on site serving refreshments and scones, while the Shepparton Heritage Society’s stall, selling show bags and with plenty of kids’ activities, was a big hit, with acting president Kristy Rudd saying it was a busy day for her on Friday.
“Today’s been really positive,” she said.
“We’ve had lots of kids through even this morning, and also a lot of the Connect groups with disability services have been coming through.”