Cathy McGowan (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I would like to congratulate the Wangaratta Agricultural Society for the success of the 150th Wangaratta Show, held on 10 and 11 October. I was honoured to be invited as a special guest, along with the Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce, and his lovely wife, Natalie.

The show committee could not have asked for better weather over the two days, with thousands of people attending. It was bigger and better than ever. I was especially pleased to be invited to judge the animal nursery competition. The seven sections were very competitive, and I appreciated the advice I received from my team of young helpers. The ferrets were voted unanimously as the cutest pets.

A special thank you to president, Bernie Evans; vice presidents, Darryl Pearson; Simone Lewis and Julie Porter; secretary, Beverley Tiffin; treasurer, Harry Glover; and the committee. Thanks also to the stewards, exhibitors and volunteers, for making this event the huge success that it was. One hundred and fifty years is a huge milestone, and testament to the hard work of the agricultural show over many generations.

With an increase in exhibitor entries in many categories, it would seem that the Wangaratta Show is to achieve bigger and better things each year, incorporating innovation, excitement, education and fun. Congratulations, well done, and a special thanks to my young team of co-judges.