IT WAS the last Pakenham Show at the racecourse on Saturday – and it was a day to remember for show go-ers and the committee.
Despite the rain, there were plenty of young show go-ers with painted faces, fake spiders, and tired legs after hours on all of the rides.
Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Geoff Young said the 103rd show went smoothly and there was lots to see and do.
“It was a really enjoyable day,” he said.
“The show is not closing, we are entering a new era in the show’s 103-year history.
“There will be some new aspects to the show, but its identity will be the same, just different surroundings.”
Mr Young said the show was a true example of where the city meets the country and that it was exciting to see it move in a new direction.
“It is a true agricultural show,” he said.
“Basically we are hoping to generate new ideas for young participants in the show, from school art shows to dog shows and the committee is all about showing off great local talent.”
Some particularly unique aspects on show day were the McAleers Irish Dance School, OzChild choice, Reptile Encounters, Animals on the Move, Spiderman and and Green Goblin Show, the annual dunking machine competition, Royal All Stars Cheerleaders, McDonalds Show and the blue light police promoting the disco on Friday night.
At the official opening of the show, Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen was joined by Mr Young, rural ambassador Grace Calder and junior show ambassador Catherine Ritchie on the stage.
“It is an honour to acknowledge the many people who have made the show what it is over more than 100 years, including more than 60 life members of the show society,” Cr Owen said.
“This community owes you a great debt for creating a wonderful chapter in history.
“We know that this is the last show at the venue. I do hope we meet again next year to celebrate the 2014 Pakenham Show.”
