After the heart-breaking decision to cancel last year’s Kiama Show, the Show Society are even more keen for the 173rd Show despite the prospect of COVID restrictions tightening further. It is being held on Saturday 23 January, 9-6pm.

“We have a strong COVID safe plan already in place, but of course we are ready to comply with any new requirements,” says the Show Secretary, Jen Hampshire.

“These include only using the top level of The Pavilion, and restricting the number of people allowed in there at one time to 100.

“It will also be a ticketed event, so we encourage people to buy their tickets online beforehand to avoid disappointment at the gate.”

While some traditions – such as the two day format, the fireworks and the entertainment – will be missing this year, the heart of the Show is being carefully tended.

“It wouldn’t be a Kiama Show without the cattle judgings, the horse and ring events and, of course, the woodchop,” says Jen.

“Our Pet Show was non-negotiable as well, as for many it is one of their favourite events.”

While the number of entry categories has had to be pared down because of the reduced exhibition area, there are still a choice of 105 classes for juniors to compete in, and 279 for seniors to choose from. Entry is free.

“We’ve also had to spread out the delivery times for the various exhibits to avoid congestion,” says Jen.

“We are really keen regular exhibitors keep this in mind, so they can lodge a valid entry.”.

“Given COVID has encouraged more people to take up past-times, we are keen to see what they have been up to,” says Jen.

Exhibits must be the work of the exhibitor, completed in the previous 24 months.

The Show’s website, www.kiamashow.com.au, has the complete listing of the competition classes in its Schedules, and details on the delivery timetable. You will also be soon able to buy tickets there: Adults $10,

$5 concession, children free.