By Afraa Kori
This year, Berwick Show’s new attractions—the Sandy Creek Clydesdales and the Heritage Draught Horse Club, proved to be major crowd-pleasers.
While the woodchop event continued to draw large crowds and remain a beloved part of the show along with our traditional agricultural, horticulture, livestock, craft, cooking, photography, art and school displays.
The owners of Sandy Creek Clydesdales, Jaimie and Matthew Thompson, cherish the stories and emotions their Clydesdales evoke in people, calling it the highlight of the show.
“We had a gentleman who lost his Clydesdale last year and he had a lovely moment with our guys remembering his past horse.”
“They were a lovely crowd, lots of wonderful questions and stories shared. People often like to know where the Clydesdales originated from, what they’re used for nowadays and what we do with them.”
“Everyone was very friendly and approachable and we had a very good interaction with the show. We are very flexible, as we go into a show not knowing the crowds.”
“People only had well wishes about our blacksmithing and Clydesdales displays, they enjoyed the cool spray from the misting hose as well.”
This encouraging response motivates them to consider returning for future Berwick Shows.
Unfortunately, the new attractions had to adapt to the tough conditions as a total fire ban was in effect on both days—announced just one day prior.
On Saturday, a fierce storm swept through the showgrounds, and Sunday experienced intermittent wind and rain, causing damage to some traders’ marquees.
Jaimie and Matthew Thompson, packed misting hoses to provide relief from the heat for both themselves and their horses, along with ensuring adequate shade. They also organized total fire ban permits to allow displays to proceed when possible, as the wind caused issues.
Despite the challenges, the event went ahead successfully thanks to the resilience and dedication of the committee, volunteers, and community.
President, Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society Inc, Sharon Geoffrey, highlighted that the key takeaway from this year’s event is that, no matter the weather, “the show will go on.”
“Our team took it all in their stride and made the necessary changes as required,” she said.
“Our committee generally believes every show is a success if it puts smiles on the faces of all those who attend.”
“I believe it’s very important to continue with the region’s agricultural and horticulture heritage.”
“The continued success is a combination of many people over many years all with one thing in common; a passion in keeping the tradition of the Berwick Show going and I feel privileged to have been a part of the show’s history.”
