Southern Canterbury A&P Show opens to big crowds and warm weather

Michael Crossan, of Timaru, has a great view from the driver's seat of his 1908 Burrell single traction engine. Photos: Sally Brooker

What a difference a year makes.

The Southern Canterbury A&P Show that was cancelled last year because of wet conditions went ahead on a warm, dry day at the Waimate Showgrounds on November 25.

The attendance figures nearly reached 3000, A&P Association manager Reto Oswald said. That was similar to the tally two years ago.

Sheep judge John Dodd checks the fleece on the eventual champion, a coloured ram bred by Leo Ponsonby of Rolleston. Hakataramea breeder Eric Ross is in the background with his Corriedale ram.

''It was a good day. The weather was with us this time.''

The committee had focused on providing a family day out, he said.

A ''Read & Ride'' programme entailed children aged 5 to 11 writing brief summaries or drawing pictures of books they had read and exchanging them for two free carnival rides at the show. Another option was to paint and hide a rock.

Young equestrians show off their skills - and ribbons - in the Grand Parade.

Those enticements led to 400 rides being given out.

''The carnival area is something we want to work on,'' Mr Oswald said.

The children's petting zoo, which was hugely popular, was another priority for future years.

The A&P Shears Pavilion, officially opened during the show, was a great attribute, Mr Oswald said.

The champion, a coloured ram bred by Leo Ponsonby of Rolleston.

He acknowledged the volunteers who had donated their labour to ensure the show's success.

''The community makes days like those.''