Our glossy magazine and new website features
This year’s Kangaroo Valley Show magazine represents a fresh chapter in our storytelling.
The magazine is a tribute to the people who make the show successful—our sponsors, volunteers, and community members. It reflects our belief that the heart of the Kangaroo Valley Show lies in participation.
Inside, you’ll find links to our online entry portal, where you can register for this year’s competitions—many of which have been enhanced in response to your feedback. This program combines new and exciting offerings with our treasured traditions.
Competition entries and online and open
This year, with the schedule moving online, we owe thanks to Bruce Martin, Cathryn Ferguson, and Nicola Greenwood for streamlining the transition. Their work has made it easier than ever to enter, whether through our online portal or via traditional paper forms available at the post office or at our Monthly market.
The benefit of our new approach is that our competition entries are open much earlier than previous years. We were up and running and receiving early entries in mid November.
Competitions are not just about winning but about being involved. As many locals say, “A show where I haven’t entered something just doesn’t feel the same.” Whether it’s one item or many, we encourage everyone to join in.
Innovations for Horse Lovers
The Kangaroo Valley Show is entering an exciting new chapter, revitalizing one of the Valley’s most cherished traditions after the challenges of bushfires, COVID-19, and floods. This year, we’re offering something for everyone with a mix of traditional classes for all ages and exciting new additions.
Alongside much-loved events, we’ve increased prize money for show jumping and introduced Thoroughbred Sport Horse Association (TSHA) classes, giving retired racehorses a second chance to shine. We’re also introducing lower height classes starting at 45-60cm, making it easier for developing riders and horses to join the competition.
With renowned course designer Kel Priestley ensuring fair and exciting layouts, there’s plenty to look forward to. Entries are now open, so riders should register as soon as possible!
Pet Photos for 2025
The photography competition is a much-loved celebration of life in the Valley, showcasing everything from its stunning landscapes to its everyday charm. Traditional categories include Portraits, Landscapes, Seascapes, Flora, Fauna, Action, Buildings or Structures, Kangaroo Valley Scenes, and even Humorous Shots—offering something for every eye and interest.
Under the long-standing stewardship of Sue Williamson, who has guided the competition since 2012, and now joined by co-steward John Garrod, the event continues to grow and adapt. Newer categories reflect today’s way of life, with “pets” celebrating the bond between families and their animals, and “wallpaper” inviting photographers to create beautiful phone and tablet backgrounds.
The junior division now features two age groups—10 and under, and 11 to 16—nurturing young talent and ensuring fair competition. It’s been heartening to see so many young photographers sharing fresh perspectives on familiar scenes, reminding us all of the magic in the everyday
Kids Day: Creating memories
This year, we are working closely with the Kangaroo Valley Public School to make Kids Day, held on the public holiday Friday, a truly special occasion. Jen Arnott and her team at the school, along with the parent group, are instrumental in helping us create a fun-filled day and ensuring our Friday night entertainment is a wonderful family event.
The day will kick off with hands-on farm activities like cow milking, butter making, and poultry demonstrations. Kids can roll up their sleeves in the baking workshop or explore fun outdoor activities like pony rides and bicycle races. “Dogs in the Park” will feature agility displays while novelty races, bike racing and dress up events will continue. The Junior Talent Muster and Poetry events will offer a stage for further creative expression.
The fun continues into the evening with a new style Bush Dance, especially for kids from 6pm with an all in by 7pm. In beds lights out by…. ????? It’s only Show Day once a year.
The Grand Parade
This year, we’re reimagining the Grand Parade at the Show, and we need your help to make it the most vibrant and exciting one yet. As part of Saturday’s festivities, the Grand Parade is a celebration of community and local pride, and we’re calling on everyone in the Valley to get involved.
The plan is simple: led by the beloved Red Shed tractor, the parade will take over the Centre Arena in a colourful display of everything that makes our community special. We’re reaching out to community groups, families, and individuals to join in.
We want to see community banners, imaginative costumes, and local groups walking together to showcase their spirit. Whether you’re part of a sports club, school group, or simply a proud local, this is your chance to be part of the fun.
And don’t forget about the Best-Dressed Ute Competition! Whether you deck your ute out in flowers, farm gear, or pure creativity, it could be the star of the parade.
So grab your friends, your bike, your dog, or your tractor, and let’s plan something truly special. Together, we can create a Grand Parade that brings the whole community together in a joyful celebration of the Kangaroo Valley spirit.
Meet us at the Farmers Market
In November, we introduced a new Kangaroo Valley Show stall at the monthly Farmers Market. It was a great success, drawing locals and visitors alike. Kathy Harrington and Pam Swinfield led a fantastic cheese workshop, teaching attendees how to create festive platters and make ricotta cheese. Their demonstrations not only engaged the audience but also revealed how even experts can learn from each other.
We also held an information talk for our new short film festival, Valley Shorts, where Howard Sacre, esteemed journalist and foreign editor with 60 minutes for decades, shared his knowledge on storytelling and the importance of great talent. Keep an eye on the website and Facebook for more sessions and workshops throughout the holidays.
Children enjoyed games and colouring activities, while committee members offered free tea, scones, and slices in true CWA tradition. The stall created a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflected the spirit of the show, and we’re thrilled to revisit it in December.
December Farmers Market Preview
December’s Farmers Market will have a festive twist! Highlights include a wreath-making workshop led by Rebecca Ashcroft, where all materials will be provided for attendees to craft their own Christmas wreaths. Workshops begin at 10 am, so be sure to sign up early. https://forms.gle/4CgBgqQc3VMYZ7mh8 For those who would like to buy a ready made wreath, Bec will have some on sale at our stall.
However you cater for the Aussie Christmas table, many traditionalists still subscribe to turkey and so, we thought it was a great opportunity to invite our local turkey breeder Alexandra Bruce to share her experiences. Among her many interests and skills (but don’t call her an expert!!) Alexandra has added Turkey breeding and quite a flock of up to a hundred at one stage. So come along to come up close with some as she shows and talks turkey!!
For children, a Christmas decorating table will be available. They can create ornaments to take home or even save for entry into the February show’s category.
We’ll also offer support for anyone needing help entering show competitions online. And for those who prefer, paper entry forms will be available. While you’re there, you can renew your membership, purchase tickets for the cheese and wine tasting event (selling fast!), and chat with our team about what’s new for 2025.
Tickets on Sale Now
For the first time in many years, we have had to increase ticket pricing to make our Show viable. Adult Membership and Saturday tickets will increase by $5, with Kids Membership remaining the same and a $2.50 increase for concession. Memberships continue to provide best value with all weekend access and multiple entry. Membership tickets are available now and while you are at it, grab some tickets for the Cheese and Wine Tasting on Friday 14th from 6-8pm.
Volunteers
Ticket costs aside, this show really couldn’t happen without our volunteers. The committee who work year round and then the valued people who join the team across the weekend – our gate keepers, bar crew, grounds team, waste warriors and more. Helen Nickell will love to hear from you https://forms.gle/ZgbU2jFzrdvY6eK39
That’s a lot of news from us this month which means we are getting closer to Show Day.. but before a few other festive events. Stay safe, happy and enjoy!
Julie Ward
