THE Noorat Show is a long-standing tradition in the south west, with the small town coming to life on November 16, 2024.

This year was the 90th show, and despite the warm, windy conditions, the day saw a similar number of patrons to last year’s record breaking 10,000 strong crowd.

Held annually, the event brings together locals and visitors to celebrate the region's agricultural heritage, showcasing the best of rural life through a variety of competitions, exhibitions, and entertainment.

At the heart of the show is its focus on livestock.

Hundreds of entries were received across many categories, including dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, dairy goats and horses.

Unfortunately, this year the poultry pens remained empty, with the local outbreak of avian influenza posing too great of a risk. 

Animal showing is a highlight for many attendees, as it offers a chance to see firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into breeding and raising livestock.

Judges evaluate animals on their breed standards, condition, and overall quality.

Show-goers are fortunate to also see firsthand some of the country’s top quality working dogs, with sheep dog trials running throughout the day. 

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of equestrian events, where horses and riders showcase their skills in showjumping, dressage, and other competitions.

In addition to livestock, the show features a range of agricultural and rural displays.

Locals can enter their wares; from photos, artworks, fresh vegetables and flowers, to homemade jams and preserves.

The homecraft pavilion was brimming with impressive floral arrangements, arts and crafts, and of course many hours were spent in the kitchen ahead of the day by young and old, perfecting cakes, biscuits and scones. 

Entertainment is a big part of the Noorat Show, with rides, games, and live performances adding to the festive atmosphere. What would a local show be without the woodchop or show and shine to see?

There was a huge selection of rides and entertainment, with something to keep even the fussiest kid amused!

If it wasn’t a spin around the dodgem track, then wining a toy or two at the various sideshow games might have been the activity of choice.

There was also an animal petting nursery and the Mik Maks on stage to keep the smallest show-goers engaged.

Food stalls offer a taste of local cuisine, with cooking displays also a feature of the day.

The event also provides a platform for local businesses and community groups to promote their goods and services, with many market stalls offering patrons some retail therapy.

The show committee have continued to prioritise the traditional agricultural aspects of the show, ensuring the strong pastoral roots of the community are honoured.

With COVID seeing the cancellation of most country shows for over two years, it is a testament to the tireless committee that the Noorat show has been able to come back stronger than ever.