Two major Methven Showgrounds projects completed

Cables were laid last week to complete the transfer underground of the power supply to the Methven Showgrounds. Photos: Maureen Bishop

Two major projects were carried out recently at the Methven Showgrounds.

In a joint project, the final stage of moving all the electricity supply underground was completed.

Methven A&P Association president Andrew Griffiths said the last of the overhead wiring had been removed and the power supply placed underground.

''It really was to keep everyone safe. A lot of big machinery comes into the show these days and we had to deal with that,'' Mr Griffiths said.

The removal and milling of a line of 50 to 60-year-old oregon trees at the showgrounds had freed up finance to fund the work, he said.

Mark Davies, of Welshy Contracting, had donated his time and the use of his latest machine, a Case bulldozer capable of laying cables, earth wire and mag slab in one operation. It was the first job for the half-million-dollar vehicle since he got it.

A member of the Methven Vintage Club, he was just one of many people and businesses who donated time, sponsorship or equipment to the projects, Mr Griffiths said.

They included Rainer Irrigation and Methven electrician Greg Anderson.

New power meters for use by exhibitors at the annual show on March 17 were also installed.

At the same time, a permanent irrigation system was laid, bringing water from the Barrhill Chertsey Irrigation Scheme from the nearby rugby grounds through the rodeo grounds to water the main show ring and the north ring.

About 500m of pipe was laid.

Owners and users of the showgrounds such as the association, the Methven Rodeo Club, the Methven Vintage Club, and the Methven Pony Club combined to finance and complete the projects.