Southland’s A&P show is gearing up to be a huge success this weekend, to make up for the past two cancelled events in 2021 and 2020.

Crowd numbers increased from just 1500 people in 2018 right up to almost 10,000 the last time it was held in 2019, and organisers expect this year to be even more popular.

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“We’ve been working really hard to bridge that gap between the urban and rural communities,” A&P association executive officer Tabitha Hazlett said.

Held at Donovan Park this Saturday, people will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with sheep, watch how they are shorn and even experience fresh milk from cows, thanks to a demonstration from Farm Fresh South.

Tabitha said it was mind-blowing to realise that many people had never patted a sheep before, after taking one into Esk Street last weekend for the celebrations.

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“It’s that whole process of paddock to plate that people are really interested in.”

There is a renewed vibrancy around the 103rd show with entertainment, livestock, trade, crafters, food court and community groups all becoming vital features of the show.

The community stage was another strong feature of the show, with various groups such as choir groups performing singing and musicals.

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“It’s an opportunity for anyone to share themselves and their talents with the crowd,” Tabitha said.

Southern Farm Machinery was bringing in a 240 horsepower John Deere tractor and young ones will be able to have a ride in it.

Or perhaps clear out your closet and jump on your Hobby horse to race at the show, with Lake Hayes A&P Show Association donating some of their popular ride-ons to the event, along with a few others in the community.

The show weekend has been extended this year, now starting with the Friday Night Market from 5:30pm, and all proceeds going to Ronald McDonald House.

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This year’s theme is ‘Celebrate Southland,’ and Southland A & P Association president Paula Bell said it was important to bring everyone together after a couple of really tough years, “and recognise the fantastic community we have here in the south.”

Television personality and mental health advocate Matt Chisholm will be headlining this year’s show, which is a real bonus for the community.

Woodchopping is back in 2023 along with the XO Carnival, including a range of children’s entertainment.

This year features a new event – the Murihiku Strength Challenge, where competitors from all over the region will battle it out for the title of Southland’s Strongest Person.

More than 50 crafters will also have their goods up for sale and there will be animals galore in the popular VetSouth Petville petting zoo.

“The Southland A&P show is a great community event that brings together hard-working farmers and townies for a day of celebration. Plus, keep a lookout for the What’s On Invers Kid’s Corner.” – Mike Sanford, founder of whatsoninvers.nz

Gates open on show day, Saturday, March 4, at 9am. Tickets are $10 for adults and children under 16 are free.

Follow the Southland A & P Association Facebook page

Southland’s A&P Show Returns Bigger Than Ever After Two-Year Hiatus

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