TWO days of perfect weather and a string of new attractions ensured the Oberon Show exceeded all expectations at the weekend.
Show Society president Beryl Gibbons said several new features were introduced the mark the 110th show and they all worked, with a few bonuses thrown in.
“The inaugural dog obedience trial on Saturday proved such as success that organisers are looking to make it an all-day event next year,” she said.
The first merino section also attracted a list of entries strong enough to continue it next year.
The equestrian program returned to the main arena, and attracted extra attention with the introduction of heavy horses and miniatures.
The mid-afternoon bull ride spectacular proved a success, with full-house seating by spectators cheering on the competitors.
The all breeds championship dog show on Sunday fell only three short of last year’s record 383, and that only was because several owners missed the registration deadline.
The introduction of helicopter rides by Orange Helicopters proved an instant crowd-puller, with potential passengers making inquiries before the machine even arrived. By late afternoon there was a two-hour waiting list for flights over the town and its surrounds.
Among the passengers were Oberon Showgirl Sarah Daniel and runner-up Kellie Gracey, who took their first flight in a chopper as one of the prizes of this year’s Showgirl Competition.
A surprise visitor to the show was Federal MP for Calare, John Cobb, the Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
In the latest boundary redistribution, Oberon Shire has now become part of the Calare electorate for the next Federal election, due later this year.
During his visit Mr Cobb gave an extensive interview to Hightop FM.
Hightop FM was making its debut at the show, providing music and show information throughout the day, and picking up new memberships along the way.
The show was officially opened by 2BS radio afternoon Talk of the Town host Peter Harrison, who is a resident of the shire and also the owner of Fish River Roasters.
In her address at the opening ceremony, Ms Gibbons made special mention of the younger generation of stewards and organisers who were now coming forward to take responsibility for various sectors of the show, and also thanked the Oberon business community for their constant support.
She said later that the attendance details were still being finalised, but all indications were that the number of people through the gate was up on last year.
She put this down not only to the always-strong local support but also because of interest from a wider area.
One gate attendant said he had been struck by the number of people who said they had come from Sydney for the show.
“Basically the show is for and about Oberon people, but it is very heartening to know that we draw interest from a wide area, both as entrants in the various classes, and people who just want a healthy fresh-air day out.”
On behalf of the motocross boys, a big vote of thanks must go to Jason O'Bernier for building the fence and building the track and Phil Campbell for his work with the water truck to make the dirt bike track so great for riders at the show.
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