John Paddison and Andrew (Andy) Strahorn were each presented with a 50 Years Service to Show Society award by Pauline Gallagher at the official opening of the Peak Hill Show last week.

John Paddison 

John Paddison became a member and committee man of the Peak Hill PA and H Association Inc in 1964.

He started on the Assistants Panel, stewarding in the Horse Ring, assisting with jumps and equipment,

In 1982 John was appointed a Vice President and also Chief Steward of the Gate, a position he has held ever since.

John was appointed President in 1996 – 1997, deferring his gate management which he recommenced after his term was complete.

During John’s term as president he was instrumental in several improvements to the showground.

A bitumen road was laid from the main entrance gate through the main thoroughfare to minimize dust levels.

This was greatly appreciated by exhibitors, stall holders and the general public.

John also organised and accompanied, along with several other committee men, a semi trailer to Sydney showground when the change over from Moore Park to Homebush was happening.

The RAS had surplus equipment they were giving to interested show societies for use on the own showgrounds.   Some of this equipment is still in use on the Peak Hill Showground today.

John has attended every show since he first joined 50 years ago and is a highly respected and valued member of the Peak Hill PA and H Association.

Andrew (Andy) Strahorn

Andy Strahorn became a member and committee man of the Peak Hill PA and H Association Inc in 1964.

Andy started on the Assistants Panel, stewarding in the Merino Sheep section.

In 1984 Andy was appointed Chief Steward of Merino Sheep, and in 1987, was appointed a Vice President while continuing his role as Chief Steward of Merino Sheep until he was appointed President in 1990-91.

During Andy’s term as president he was instrumental in several major improvements to the showground including concrete floors and some new roofing on the main pavilion, painting and erecting fences.

Andy accompanied John Paddison to the Sydney showground where they obtained surplus equipment for the Peak Hill Showground.

In 1992 Andy was appointed a Trustee to the showground, and in 2005, was appointed President of the Trustees, a position he held until 2010. 

He is still a Trustee to this day.

Also in 1992, Andy was appointed Chief Steward of the Sheep Dog Trials until its disbandment in 1999 when a Shearing Competition was introduced, of which he was appointed Chief Steward until its disbandment in 2011.

In 2006 Andy was presented with Life Membership to the Peak Hill Show Society.

He continues to help out wherever he is needed on show days and at working bees.

Andy has attended every show since he first joined 50 years ago and is also a highly respected and valued member of the Peak Hill PA and H Association.