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The 2020 Bowral Show has been cancelled. The show committee announced the news in a statement following the weekend's bushfires.
"Due to the recent and current fire events, and potential weather conditions closer to this weekend, our committee has decided that in the best interest of all involved, we should cancel the Bowral Show for this year, 2020," the statement said.
"Like the Albion Park committee's recent decision, this was not easy for us, and with added concerns of smoke-related health issues, we are have decided upon this course of action.
"As Bong Bong racecourse is also an optional evacuation centre, we feel that we can best support the community. It is not practical to continue Bowral Show preparations at this time.
"We believe it's most important to concentrate on keeping focus on families and properties safe.
"The Bowral Show Committee extends condolences and best wishes to all those affected by the fires. Please stay informed about fire conditions in your area and stay safe and look after one another. Donations at this time can be directed to the appropriate channels."
Earlier:
Preparations are well underway for the 2020 Bowral Show.
The show will be held at Bong Bong Picnic Racecourse on Saturday, January 11 and Sunday, January 12.
Bowral Show secretary Edwina Grant said about 15 volunteers were hard at work in the lead-up to the show.
"Everything's going well and is on track. It should be a successful show," Ms Grant said.
"We've added a few more classes and jumping events. We've also added to the heavy horse program and the roam classes."
Ms Grant said there would also be between 30 to 40 volunteers on deck during the two-day show.
Events will include pavilion exhibits, a two-day showjumping program, breed classes, open classes, riding classes, show hunters, turnout classes, sporting events, pet show, dog high jump, a raffle, coffee and hot food.
Sunday will be a family day and will include a pet show, dog high jump, mini trot races and the down under working dogs.
The two-day event will feature new attractions including a hobby horse race and a hobby horse best dressed competition on Sunday.
Ms Grant said she wanted to keep the Bowral Show affordable for the community, particularly with the current drought and bushfire conditions.
"We're not spending a lot of money on entertainment as such. It's pretty much a local, little country show that keeps country things happening," she said.
"It's a very good horse program for the exhibitors, it's a good show to start off the year.
"We keep the entry fees down so it's affordable show. People like the quiet atmosphere and the big grounds to warm up your horses."
Admission to the show is $10 for adults, $5 for pensioners and children under 14 and $20 for families.
Meanwhile the price for camping is $15 and the cost of setting up a stall is $10 per day and $10 per night.
The pavilion opens for all entry forms and exhibits on Thursday, January 9 from noon.
Entries close and all exhibits must be in the pavilion by 4.30pm on Friday, January 10.
