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Of the 206 shows held annually in New South Wales, Berry's, in early February, is among the most traditional and, according to its proud committee members, "one of the best on the coast". It's typical of the annual shows that many rural Australians have grown up with a mixture of agricultural exhibits and events, and a wonderful meeting place bustling with characters. |
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There are 55 members on Berry's show committee which oversees organisation of agricultural and fruit and vegetable exhibits, coordinating the remaining pavilion displays and catering for the show's 7500 - 8000 visitors, stewards and judges is the responsibility of an equally dedicated women's auxiliary. It's all part of a long tradition. |
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Shows in the Berry district date back to 1887, when an unofficial agricultural exhibition was held at nearby Broughton Creek. The show was first staged on the current site the following year, and by the turn of the century the custom was firmly entrenched. |
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With the exception of four war years, the show has been held ever since, and remains a showcase for all sorts of produce - ranging from sugar melons to sunflowers, poultry to pasture. And of course, there's the cattle and goat judging, a huge program of horse events, and the hard-fought contests for the finest cakes and jams, flowers and arts and crafts. |
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