It has brought together families across the generations to hand on cherished traditions and engage in some friendly competition.
My memories of the Shepparton Show go back to my childhood, and I remember being still in high school when I stepped onto the stage full of nervous excitement to participate in the Miss Shepparton Showgirl competition.
Those early experiences sparked a lifelong love for the event, marked by many other proud moments, including winning two coveted blue ribbons for my cooking entries.
Over the years, the show remained a classic family affair, sprinkled with joy and sometimes long nights of hard work.
I have a vivid memory of hauling a Tattersalls terminal down to the grounds just so we could sell Tattslotto tickets to the festival crowds.
Then there were the legendary showbags.
In my view, the absolute best showbags in town weren’t the commercial ones, but the local Shepparton Search and Rescue and Shepparton CFA bags — I was glad to help pack and sell showbags sporting the Search and Rescue logo, which filled me with local pride.
A decade ago, I had the immense honour of launching the commemorative book for the 140th anniversary, a moment that revealed just how central this event is to our city’s identity.
Beyond the ribbons, the books, and the bustling stalls, the real magic of the Shepparton Show has always been the raucous fun shared with family and friends year after year.
As the Shepparton Show celebrates reaching the iconic milestone of 150 extraordinary years, I acknowledge the incredible volunteers and exhibitors who make the landmark event possible every year, and I look forward to seeing the proud tradition continue long into the future.
State Member for Northern Victoria
Wendy Lovell
19°C