Pat’s Weekly Column – 26 April 2021

The last 12 months has seen many of our local community events either cancelled or postponed, while together we’ve been focussed on keeping everyone healthy and safe.

This includes our country shows, which are enjoyed by so many of us whether they be the small shows that bring to life our towns and villages, or the larger shows that attract thousands of locals and visitors.

There’s always something for everyone to enjoy, whether it’s the great local food and entertainment, the carnival rides and side-show alley attractions, or the skill of the dressage. I myself enjoy taking the family to our local shows where together we spend some valuable time together, take in the sights, sounds and smells, and really appreciate what it means to be part of our mid-north coast community.

You always seem to bump into lots of local characters, learn more about the history of your local area and its people… and without doubt leave with a full belly and a smile on your face.

Growing up in Kempsey I remember my mates and I having a great time at the Kempsey Show, and what made it even better is that we were given a half day off school to go and have fun!

As things start to return to normal there’s some great news, with two of our much-loved shows returning in the coming weeks. Both the Coffs Harbour Show and Bellingen Shows’ are back, so make sure you get the family and friends together and put the dates in your calendar now.

The Coffs Harbour Show is one not to be missed, starting this Friday April 30, and running through to Sunday May 2.

I’ll be there enjoying the great program of events and activities, and I’m really looking forward to some great local food, fun and festivity.

This is followed next weekend by the Bellingen Show, with the fun happening on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 May. The village will come alive with everything that is uniquely Bellingen, and you can join in on the annual fun run, wood chop, mongrel dog show, partner carrying competition, cooking demonstrations and live music.

Isn’t it great that we can get out and about to enjoy our local shows and stay connected with our communities …

Let the shows begin!

Pat.