COUNTRY FAIR
Melissa Connors
2020 – what a BLEEP of a year! Thankfully, our region’s dedicated Agriculture Show committees are hitting the ground running to bring our shows back with a bang. Plans, meetings, and bookings are all going on behind the scenes as we tentatively make our way out of lockdowns and cancelled events. With most of the shows just an hour travel time from Melbourne, the biggest problem you will have is deciding which one to attend. But after spending so much time in lockdown or within a 5km radius of your home, why not get these dates in your diary and attend them all!? Let the kids, you and even the grandies come and enjoy the country air, hospitality, and open spaces to blow away all the cobwebs of the last year and run free for a day – there are endless activities and attractions for everyone, whether you are one or 100 years old. Our local communities are passionate about their Ag
Shows, which is the secret ingredient to their success and inclusivity. This is apparent in the extraordinary entries you find in the pavilions, where you can explore all the local entries including cooking, knitting, sewing, lego, photography, produce, needlework, flowers, artwork…the list goes on. There is always excitement in the air as entrants eagerly wait to see who won, placed, or received a special mention. Of course, our Ag Shows all have one thing in common: farm animals; and who doesn’t love a chance to get up close and personal with our furry, feathery, and wooly friends? Don’t worry, only the friendliest animals are chosen to attend, so you can cuddle and pat to your heart’s content. If horses are more your thing, you won’t be disappointed with the ‘Best in Show’ events and ‘Show Jumping’ exhibitions. This year the Kyneton Show will include a new section dedicated to the new members of our region with a ‘Regional Living Expo’ sponsored by my organisation,
This Farm Needs A Farmer: COVID produced a major exodus of people leaving Melbourne to join our region and this is an opportunity to connect and learn about managing your rural property all the while enjoying a great family day out. So, get behind our record breaking treasures. 2021 will see Daylesford show celebrate 148 years, Maldon 157 years, Kyneton and Clunes Shows celebrate 160 years, and Castlemaine 167 years. What a fantastic bunch of centurions still going strong, and your support will ensure they will live on for years to come. UPCOMING AG SHOWS IN THE REGION:
Maldon Show – October 17 Lancefield Show – October 17 Castlemaine Show – October 29 - 30 Kyneton Show – November 19 – 20 Clunes Show – November 20 Daylesford Show – November 27 *All dates are subject to change and/or cancellation.
Ride Guide ROAD / GRAVEL / MOUNTAIN
Explore the Macedon Ranges on two wheels. Choose from 18 rides rated from easy to advanced and discover the region from a different perspective. Whether it’s a day trip or a cycling getaway, our Ride Guide offers something for everyone.
Daylesford Macedon Life | 23
