The 2021 Baradine Show has been hailed a big achievement and a true celebration of community and commitment.

Held on Saturday, 27 March, the show was the town’s first major event for more than 12 months.

An estimated 700 people rolled up, making it one of the most successful shows to be held at Baradine for many years. The barmy autumn day with blue skies, gentle breeze and no dust made conditions perfect and delighted organisers.

“A successful show requires involvement and inclusion and we have had all of that,” said Baradine Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural (PA&H) Association president, Lauren Harris.

“We have a great team of volunteers and we have received welcome support from Coonabarabran, Mendooran and Binnaway show committees, who came along on show day to help out.

“None of it could have been achieved without passion and determination from everyone to see the show go on.

“Agricultural shows are a way of bringing our rural communities together and they have become a valued iconic feature of rural life; they are the opportunity to showcase our livestock, produce and achievements.

“However, over the past 12 months this has not happened and at one point we were wondering if we would be holding a show this year. But we have succeeded and it has all been wonderful.

“I think we can now boast our success in putting on a great COVID safe event with really good vibes.”

The 2021/2021 Baradine Showgirl, Imogen Bunner congratulated the committee for all their hard work.

“I think it has been an amazing day, there was a lot going on and everyone was enjoying themselves,” Imogen said.

“I must admit, it was disappointing when the 2021 event had to be cancelled, but this year’s show has been excellent.

“It has not been an easy task for the committee and I commend them for their determination and commitment.”

The pleasing number of entries in pavilion competitions, yard dog trials, horse events and sheep- judging sections kept stewards on their toes. 

“It was hard to choose a winner,” said Gulargambone wool judge, William Redington.

“All the fleeces were of excellent quality, very sound and high yielding. The champion fleece had the highest weight and yield and was also true to type.

“It was a pleasure to judge and good to see so many entries and tight competition.”

Doug King, from Coonabarabran, took out the coveted first prize for the Baradine CWA sponsored men’s sconecompetition.

“I am really chuffed to have won,” Doug said.

“Of course, I have been honing my baking technique for 12 months!

“I just entered on a whim, but I don’t think I can really compare with the CWA cooks.

“My mother was a member of the Narooma branch of CWA for many years and it was nice to take part in this competition.

“I think it is a good place to be - a practising pharmacist and a baker!”

entertainers were a great hit with children with their stilt walking characters, balloon animals and tuition on using poi and rhythm sticks.

The crowd was drawn to the demonstration of speedy whip cracking and rope tricks by Daniel Wicks, which was followed by a whip cracking competition for all ages.

The day concluded with the dog high jump challenge and a sizzling fire twirling show.

“I think this is just what we all needed after years of drought and 12 months of COVID shutdown,” added Lauren Harris.

“We had perfect weather and there was a sense of togetherness about the whole event.

“I would like to thank everyone who helped to make the 2021 Baradine Show such a success.”