Echuca-Moama Show goes off with a bang

Echuca-Moama and District Agricultural Show Society president Allan Mathers was rapt with the turnout at the annual event.

“A big thanks to the public that came through the gates ... (it was) most likely the biggest gate we have had in many years,” Mr Mathers said.

Many took the chance to check out everything Sideshow Alley had to offer with the showbag stand doing a roaring trade.

The miniature train ride proved popular with the youngsters, while the classic dodgem cars and tea cups also attracted plenty of customers.

Zoe, seven years old, Trace, five and Ava, nine, gave their thumbs up.

“We love the show and exploring all that’s on offer,” Ava said.

The pavilion hosted all the cooking, arts and craft competitions, as well as the plant show.

Other traditional favourites including the ute show, animal displays, vintage car show and shine, and the pet parade also featured.

Equestrian events also took place in the centre arena.

Among the eventing competitors, 13-year-old Cruize, who was perched on his horse, Junior, waiting to take centre stage.

“I’ve been doing these events since I was two and a half years old,” Cruize said.

“We travel all around Australia. We’ve been to South Australia and Sydney. And in the coming months, we plan to compete in the nationals.

Sisters nine-year-old Amity and Amelia, 11, have also been working with horses since two years of age.

While the trio travels far and wide with mum Amberley in tow, they may one day reach the pinnacle of the sports competition.

“Potentially, we will be able to compete in the Olympics. That’s the dream. It does take a lot of effort in terms of money and time training,” Cruize said.

Jessica Gavenlock and her daughter Britney were also part of the day’s festivities as they showed off their Holstein cattle to the amazement of onlookers and judge Courtney Afford, who drove from South Australia for the annual event.

“Today is an opportunity to give the young ones some experience. Right now, we are in the process of getting ready for National Dairy Week in Tatura,” Mrs Gavenlock said.

“Over a year, we attend about 10 shows a year.”

Mrs Gavenlock came to Australia from the United States, where she met her husband, Brad, and they now have three children — Penny, Britney and Maggie.

“I’ve been showing cows since I was young. But my husband Brad and my three kids, Penny, Britney and Maggie, have run Cherrylock Cattle Co. in Tallygaroopna for the past eight years.”

Saturday night’s fireworks display provided one of the moments of the show, with Mr Mathers saying this year’s success came thanks to a wide team effort.

“I’d like to thank our hard-working committee and volunteers who all made our 2023 show a great success,” Mr Mathers said.

“The conclusion on Saturday evening was the fireworks that, once again, were great entertainment for all ages.

“We thank you all for coming.”