The rides have been dismantled, prizewinning livestock returned to their paddocks, fairy-floss devoured and the last of the itinerant showies packing their caravans and moving on to the next town following another successful annual Parkes Show.
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Despite rain, lightning and strong winds on Wednesday night that sent showgoers scampering for cover, the extensive program over the three days and two nights was completed.
Yesterday, Garry O’Brien who officiated at the first of his two years as president of the Parkes PA and H Association, was still sporting a huge grin.
“The rain on Wednesday night may have brought a quick end to Sideshow Alley, but up until then the weather was perfect for another great show,” he said.
“Despite this I can report crowd numbers were 200 up on last year, the majority of whom took advantage of the half day holiday and the pre-sold ticket deal which allowed patrons unlimited entry throughout the show.”
During Tuesday’s official opening, Garry thanked his hard working committee and in particular secretary Kaye Bird for all the assistance and support for this year’s show.
“It is amazing in this day and age that volunteer committees like ours still stage community events like this,” Garry said.
“To all the business houses, exhibitors, judges, stewards and volunteers I say thank you for continually turning up and making the show what it is.
“Particular thanks is extended to Northparkes Mines for the effort put into their interactive display in the Feature Pavilion.”
He particularly thanked the public for its strong support once again.
Garry spoke proudly of the history associated with the show.
“This is the 135th staging of this great show - one where the grandstand reached the grand old age of 125.
“I think one of the secrets to the longevity of the show has been the way the community always supports and participates.
“This has certainly been the case again this year.”
The highlight attraction of the show was undoubtedly the FMX Freestyle Motocross team who thrilled crowds with their dare-devil motor bike antics.
Then on Tuesday night, patrons looked on in awe of another magnificent fireworks display.
“We say this all the time but the fireworks get better, louder and more brilliant every year,” Garry said.
Wednesday night’s program was highlighted by the Demolition Derby which was completed just before the rain.
The last car standing was that of Luke Herbert in car number 16.
Earlier in the day, local farmers took advantage of the fine weather conditions to socialise and take part in the first staging of what the PA and H hopes will become known as the annual Farmers Day.
“Guest speakers spoke on issues such as crop agronomy, animal nutrition and all the latest technology in the ag game,” Garry said.
“The day was opened by Federal Member for Calare John Cobb.
“John in particular was glad to see us getting back to the grassroots of agriculture and highlighting it at the annual show.”
Garry said that for the show to have a future, the PA and H has to remain relevant to the local community.
“This was our first year hosting the Farmers Day and it was great to see so many local farmers take advantage of all that was on offer.
“The response to Wednesday’s program has given us the confidence to proceed further with this format next year.”
With the show done and dusted, attention will now focus on preparations for the staging of the 136th annual Parkes Show - the greatest show west of the Blue Mountains.