Show president follows in family's footsteps
Ben Morrow, this year’s Mayfield A&P Show president, describes the event as “a small show that punches above its weight.”
“It’s family-friendly and has some unique attractions such as the pig racing, the tractor pull, and all the regular favourites as well, like arts and crafts, the pet tent, produce, food, and entertainment,” Morrow says.
Morrow is following a family tradition as the third member of his family to be at the helm of the show, which has been running for 98 years.
Morrow’s father was Mayfield Show president in 1993, and his mother took on the role in 2007.
“My father, Mark, was the first to train the pigs for pig racing, and this year my brothers-in-law have that job.
“My mother, Nicky, has always been a great supporter of the show, putting in entries every year. “This year, she is patron of the show.”
Morrow said the biggest challenge is fine-tuning the show and building on the lessons learned from the previous event.
“We are trying to keep it cash-positive so we can invest back into the A&P grounds and ensure this great event can keep running.”
Morrow said the show was an important way to showcase the district and bring the community together, and he encourages people to come along on March 9 and enjoy all the event has to offer.
“Make time to be involved with your community, have heaps of fun catching up and enjoy the good rural hospitality. We have a great committee who put in so much work to make it an awesome day. There is something for all ages to enjoy.”
Mayfield Agricultural and Pastoral Show
· Show location: Mayfield A&P Showgrounds, 2020 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road.
· Show date: 9th March 2024
· Parking: Off Arundel Gorge Road, (Lions will assist).
· President: Ben Morrow
· Vice president: Tim Rowe
· Opening Times: 9 am – 4 pm
· Ticket sales (cost/at gate etc) : $15 adults, school children free. Cash sales at gate or buy tickets online https://showday.online/show/mayfield
· Key Highlights: Tractor pull, pig racing, pet tent, produce and stock, arts and crafts, horse riding, food, kids rides and entertainment and much more.
· Best place to follow for information: Follow us on Facebook: Mayfield Show and https://showday.online/show/mayfield
by Claire Inkson
