Show rises above the bad weather

By Callan Date
WINTER-like weather failed to dampen the spirits of the enthusiastic crowd who attended last weekend’s Berwick Show.
Although the attendance was about 1000 down on last year’s record roll up, Akoonah Park was still full of colour and excitement throughout the two day event.
The Berwick Show continued with its genuine feel of country meeting the city and that was again evident as city slickers got up close and personal with farm stock.
Local dancers and cheerleaders mixed with burly woodchoppers, art and craft folk and farmers as the various groups displayed their differing skills and talents.
Major highlights of the show included the high flying stunts of the Empire Freestyle Motocross crew.
Crowd favourite Sampson the Monster Truck was a big hit and didn’t disappoint with his car crushing demonstration.
The Little Pipiles Salvadorean School of Dance performed an exciting routine on one of the stages.
Berwick Guides were also represented on the day and did their best to encourage new members into their tight knit group.
Berwick Show Society secretary Mike Vallence said the weather had an impact on both the attendance and attractions.
He said the motocross and fireworks schedule was altered slightly because of strong winds.
“I think everybody would agree that the show went well,” Mr Vallence said.
“All the feedback from the residents who attended and those who competed said it went very well.”
He said there was no repeat of the parking issues that hampered last year’s event.
“We worked with the City of Casey for about six months on the parking. We employed a traffic consultant and had a very comprehensive traffic management plan.”
Mr Vallence said the organising committee would be aiming to provide another great event in 2009.
“The Berwick Show is one of the few shows to continue to grow in popularity every year.”