More entries, more attractions at Southland A&P show

Thomas McGavin (left), Carl McGavin and Wade Yaxley erect the marquees in which the arts and crafts will be displayed at this weekend's Southland A&P show.

Entries are significantly up across the board for the 151st Southland A&P Show at Donovan Park in Invercargill this weekend.

Executive officer Tabitha Hazlett said the trade section had been significantly expanded to about 60 participants.

"We've also added a food court with more than 20 vendors."

Ms Hazlett said the judging for the beef section was completed on-farm last week and the dairy judging was taking place this week.

The 65 beef judges had covered several hundred kilometres visiting farms and the dairy judges had covered at least double that distance.

A new community stage is also set to be a major attraction.

"The community stage this year means groups, organisations and schools which are performing will also have the chance to see what other amazing aspects our A&P show has."

Southland A&P Show president Paula Bell said community was the theme for the event this year.

"Shows are a great way to bring country to town and some of the sections, such as the pet section, provide the perfect opportunity for children to interact with farm animals they might not otherwise see."

There will be three entertainment stages in action.

"This year, we also have a partner carry race with awesome prizes, a revitalised scarecrow competition and an Agrikids competition."

After the on-farm judging, the cattle trophies will be presented on show day in the cattle marquee.

There will also be a junior handler competition and one breeder's cattle will be available for entrants to show their handling skills.

Vintage and classic machinery will be on display and will take part in the Grand Parade in the main ring.

Some of the creative sections include the biggest pumpkin and ugliest vegetable.
Yesterday, workers were busy erecting marquees, the showjumping course and stands.