General News
27 June, 2024
Kaniva to host state shows forum
Agricultural show organisers from across the state are descending on the Wimmera this week for a three-day Victorian convention.
Victorian Agricultural Societies has chosen Kaniva A and P Society to host its annual meeting and conference from June 28 to 30.
Kaniva is a member of Wimmera Agricultural Societies Association (WASA), which represents 13 show societies across the Wimmera and southern Mallee.
During the conference attendees are visiting the Rocky Lamattina carrot farm and Serviceton's iconic and historic railway station.
They are also attending workshops, including on ways to promote and market shows through social media, and participating in a showday online workshop, with a separate session for show secretaries.
A Saturday night dinner will feature music by local band The Austins.
WASA's recent annual meeting elected Nicole Nunn of Donald as president, Louise Hobbs of Horsham as secretary, and Andrea Cross, also of Horsham, treasurer.
Ms Hobbs, who teaches agricultural science at Goroke and is originally from Kaniva, is Victoria's Rural Ambassador after winning at both Wimmera and state levels.
She will represent Victoria in the national titles later this year, competing against show winners from across the country.
Ms Cross said Ms Hobbs had introduced new perspectives on ways to run shows and was proving a positive influence throughout Victoria.
"This is an exciting time for shows," Ms Cross said.
"The fact we can attract 6000 people to Horsham's show is proof we have something to offer and that the community enjoys the opportunity to come together."
She said some towns such as Jeparit had struggled to stage shows.
However, she said Jeparit now had a new show committee with Rebecca Schultz as president, and thanks to increased community support was preparing a new-look show for 2024.