The Benalla showgrounds are alive with preparations for the Rose City’s Annual Spring Show.
The sideshows are being assembled, the cakes are being judged, and a small band of volunteers are beavering away at getting the pavilions just right for the show.
Showjumping will return to the Main Arena at 9am on Friday, October 20, and with record entries will see the state’s top riders competing for both days of the Show.
The Main Arena will also be shared with Led classes and Harness events on the Friday.
Saturday will see the return of the mighty heritage breed Clydesdales at 10am as well as a range of led classes for coloured breeds, ponies and Standardbreds.
The Pony Club and Fun Ring will also call the main arena home on Saturday.
The highlight of the Pony Club ring will be the Andrew Dowell Memorial for the most successful rider and the fun ring welcomes all children who do not normally compete at shows.
Horse events will also be on the Arundel St Ovals and will be the place to see some of the state’s best riders compete in turnout, riding and led classes.
It will also be the place to watch the local Horse and Riding Club Association of Victoria riders compete on the Saturday.
The Championship Dog Show will start at 8.15am on Friday and will actually be two shows on the one day.
Besides the amazing displays of cookery, arts, crafts, photography and textiles in the Croxford Pavilion there will also be displays from local schools and demonstrations of handspinning and other handcrafts.
Underneath the historic grandstand attendees will find glorious floral displays, farm and home produce and wool.
Snake Safe Victoria will attend the show on both days with their wonderful information and displays of reptiles and other native animals for all to enjoy.
Free painting for the children will be available for both days.
Saturday sees the competitions heat up in the livestock sections with cattle, poultry and numerous breeds of sheep attending, from historic Lincolns to the new Australian Whites.
For the first time there will also be Dairy Goats being judged at the sheep shed so don’t forget to check them out.
Ferret races will provide some hilarity and excitement on Saturday as will the ever-popular dog jump. And don’t forget the tiny tot competition and pet parade in the morning.
The show will be open Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am – 4.30pm
Adults $20; Concession $10 (full pension, Bridge St gate only); Children under 18yrs free
For more information call 5762 2323 or visit www.benallashow.com/