This year the honour falls on me, as the first female chair in the show’s history, to invite you to our 125th Holsworthy & Stratton Agricultural Show on Thursday, August 24.

It is a pleasure to welcome Mr Guy Ley as our president and I thank him for his many years of service to the show.  I hope, together with his wife Florance, he has a wonderful day.

The show has always been a highlight on my family’s calendar. As a child I could be found in the sheep rings with my dad John and grandad Dennis Wonnacott and then in later years having fun in the Young Farmers Club tent! 

I am looking forward this year to watching the YFC members Soap Box challenge, in the main ring, with their Super Mario themed Go-Karts. Following this we have a breathtaking BMX Stunt Bike Show - the Red Bull Riders promise back flips whatever the weather!

My children are the 6th generation of our family to exhibit at the show so I fully appreciate the hard work and preparation from exhibitors. Thank you also to our judges and stewards, without you all there would be no Grand Parade - a highlight of the day.

I have a very supportive Committee who I sincerely thank for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. 

I welcome our new secretary, Mrs Fiona Cleave. Together with the committee it has been a pleasure planning this 125th show with her. Fiona’s commitment has been 100%.

Our showground directors, John Medland and Martyn Mill are always at the end of the telephone with a wealth of knowledge and guidance.

To Ian Rolinson, our vice chair, thank you for your support especially in helping to put together our history marquee with past secretary Mrs Annette Dennis. Much time has been spent researching the history of our show so please do visit this exhibition. Memories cannot be made without a photographer, we thank Rodney Parish for his contribution.

One committee member I would not want to exchange roles with is Angela Blackman, our treasurer - thank you Angela for your book keeping skills.

On walking into the flower tent you will be wowed by the Quasquicentennial theme. I know Liz Hodgson and her willing team of helpers will amaze us with a wonderful array of flowers and foliage.

I am so grateful for the generosity and support local businesses have shown us through sponsorship of attractions, rings, marquees and prizes. This year we welcome the ‘Travelling Dancing Sheep Show’. 

Others who are attending with exhibits, trade stands, entertainment and catering outlets thank you all - I hope you have a successful day.

Rain or shine, on show day I can certainly promise you a fabulous family day of entertainment.

I look forward to welcoming you through the show gates.

Sarah Bearns

Chairperson