Farm animals, fairy floss, and fireworks: the Mudgeeraba Agricultural Show is ready to delight the whole family, for the 93rd time.
Looking back, the core memories from my childhood always involve moments where all my senses were fully engaged, and the Mudgeeraba Agricultural Show always delivered this in spades. The smell of the farm animals, the taste of the fairy floss, the sound of the woodchopping and the working dogs barking. The warmth of the winter sun fading behind the hills and the fireworks lighting up the dark sky. I can’t wait to watch my own children’s faces as they experience this historic and iconic Gold Coast event for the very first time this year.
I had the privilege of chatting with Mudgeeraba Show Society President Melanie Bryson, and 2023 Show Ambassador and Young Woman of the Year Bethany McDonald, about what to expect from this year’s event. Devastatingly, last year’s Show was cancelled less than a month out due to ongoing heavy rain, so the team (which is completely volunteer run) is looking forward to a very busy and sunny weekend on 24 and 25 June.
In no particular order, here are Melanie and Bethany’s top 10 must-sees at this year’s Show:
1. Miniature Goat Competition
Contenders for cutest animals in existence, this year’s line-up will include Australian Miniature, Pygmy, Nigerian Dwarf, and Numby goat breeds.
2. Equestrian Events
Take in the spectacle of the grand parade, show jumping, and ranch horse show.
3. Woodchopping
At 12pm each day, competitors will skilfully wield their axes in upperhand, standing, and tree felling for their chance to win the John Franklin Memorial Points Trophy.
4. Working Dogs
All the goodest girls and boys will demonstrate their remarkable intelligence, agility, and endurance as they round up farm animals.
5. Animal Nursery
Your chance to get up close with gentle baby farm animals. It really is as cute as it sounds.
6. Poultry Competition
With over 80 breeds of poultry competing in multiple categories, this is your chance to come and admire these feathery descendants of dinosaurs.
7. Train Ride
Young adventurers can travel around the showgrounds in style.
8. Norco Young Farmers Competitions
The Show Ambassadors have been busy planning competitions across multiple iconic farming activities, such as lassoing a cow statue and rolling up a swag. This event is a tradition across all Australian agricultural shows and is a sight to see.
9. Our Community Groups
The Show is filled to the brim with different community group stalls, including the Girl Guides, Animal Welfare League, the Lions Club, and so many more. They embody the community spirit of the show.
10. Arts & Crafts Pavilion
Sewing, quilting, homebrew, knitting, crochet, visual art, photography, cooking, decorated cakes, home grown produce, and the list goes on. It’s a spectacular feast for the eyes.
The Mudgeeraba Show runs this weekend 24 and 25 June at the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds. To book your tickets, head to the show society website and follow the show on Facebook and Instagram @mudgeerabashow.
