Entertainment
18 February, 2024
120-year milestone for Atherton Show
AS Atherton Show gets set to celebrate 120 years this year, the committee needs the help of the community to tell stories of times gone by.
Atherton Show event manager Kylie Lang said many generations of local families had participated in the show throughout the years.
It was the stories from these families Kylie is hopeful she can get a hold of.
“We are seeking any information and photos to allow us to compose a small historical keepsake,” Kylie said.
It’s not every day an agricultural show turns 120 years old but it’s Atherton’s turn and there’s no sign of it shutting down anytime soon.
“Over the past 120 years, we have had many families take part in the annual show through generations of participation across all competitions,” Kylie said.
The show’s history will be celebrated at the annual event on 8-9 July.
Kylie said the committee was still in the early stages of planning and were yet to decide on special events and guests to help celebrate the momentous occasion.
It was back in 1904, on 20 and 21 July the first Atherton Show was held at the same location it’s held today.
It followed the formation of the Barron Valley Agricultural Pastoral and Industrial Association which hosted the show, with William Marnane as the first chairman.
The show has continued to be held annually except for 1925 and in three years during World War II when the showgrounds were under Army control.
There have been many improvements to the showgrounds throughout the years including the grandstand and oval, both constructed in 1918 and during 1934-35 ring lighting, fencing and seating were added.
As a result of Army occupation of the showgrounds from 1942 to 1945, an igloo was erected on the site.
After the war, the igloo was secured at a bargain price by the Show Society and has since been improved and expanded - today it’s known as Merriland Hall.
Anyone who has stories and photos can email them to info@athertonshow.com.au
Keep an eye on the website www.athertonshow.com.au and social media for more 120th celebration announcements.
“It can’t be done without you! You, your family, our wonderful community will make the 120th Show extra special celebrating the show history of the last 120 years. If you have family history with the Atherton Show, information, photos, stories, please send the info through.” Kylie said.
Any family history with the Atherton show, information, photos, stories, should be sent to info@athertonshow.com.au
