NOT even shoddy grandstands can get in the way of the Armidale Show.
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The seats have been in disrepair for some time. Show president Kelso Looker said they hope to have them up and running by next year.
“We have begged, borrowed and stolen grandstands from everywhere that we can. With our hands tied, we’ve gone back to a very traditional approach,” he said.
In the past the Show Society has struggled with volunteers and it appears to be a problem across the board.
But, Kelso said the Armidale Show Society is regaining its strength.
“We’re always looking for more people. As the show members get older, unfortunately there’s an overturn of people. If anyone is interested in volunteering, we’ll take them,” he said.
“The more people we have the more ideas are bouncing around and the better the show can become.”
It’s a 365-day job, but Kelso said it’s worth it for the friendships and skills learnt along the way.
“I think these days there’s so much more for young people to do, they can watch television or go on the internet,” he said.
“Whereas back in the day you were waiting for someone to die before you could get on the show committee.”
This year the Young Farmers Challenge is back after a break.
The competition involves young people completing common agricultural activities like building a set of yards and moving sheep through them or rolling up a swag.
The fastest farmers take the prize.
Armidale original, the Community Business House Challenge is back again too.
“I don’t know of anyone else who does this,” Kelso said.
“I’ve noticed that it has gotten better. We already had some smack talk between the businesses this year about who would win.
“Healthy competition is good for the town and it shows our community spirit.” Kelso said buckle up for some fun and entertainment. “It’ll highlight what makes Armidale and the surrounding districts such great communities,” he said.