David Gillespie (Lyne, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Country shows are part of the rich tapestry of life not only in the Lyne electorate but around the nation—and how good it is that country shows are back in action! I attended the Gresford Show on the weekend, with my wife Charlotte. It was great to see the whole community involved. The Colts cricket club cooked breakfast, the Scorpions footy club ran the barbecue, the canteen was run by the Paterson River Pony Club, and the Gresford P&C and the local RFS managed traffic and parking. I want to pay a special tribute to the new president, Mick Kealy; his vice-president and ringmasters, Josh Evans and Paul Dooley; the secretary, Rosalie Lawrence ; the treasurer, Angus Uren; Leona Clements and Verity Lawrence. I would like to give a special mention to Dan Maroulis and his team, who manned the bar. I would like to thank the retiring Gresford showgirl, Rowena Dillon, and Emily Lazelle, who was crowned the new junior showgirl.

This year we saw some innovation, with online entry used for horse events. Trevor Bird and his team explained that the digital format ensured that the day ran smoothly. I would like to thank Ross Beaney and his family, who manned the gatehouse, Penny Evans, who did the most amazing COVID-safe set up and check-in; and all the team who made 2021 a resounding success. Congratulations to all those community groups who contributed to a wonderful day for the thousands of people who attended the 2021 Gresford Show.