Marlborough A&P Show aims for a special 150th celebration.

TONY ORMAN

Planning for this year’s annual Marlborough Agricultural and Pastoral Show, currently underway, is aiming for a special celebration this year to mark the 150th show.

Sam Rutherford president of the Marlborough A and P Association says the special birthday will be enhanced by the event not coinciding with other local events.

“This year the show won’t clash with Garden Marlborough for the first time, as there is an extra weekend in November prior to the Canterbury A and P Show two weeks later. Normally we are the week before Christchurch,” he says.

The Equestrian section has been granted a Royal Event status by the Royal A and P Society of New Zealand which means that champion & supreme champions will receive RAS medals and red, white & blue ribbons.

“We are hoping to have a 150^th anniversary ball prior to the show and will be encouraging people to dress in period costume. It promises to be a load of fun,” says Sam Rutherford.

Also on the list of probabilities are a display showing the change in land use over the last 150 years and comprehensive display of vintage machinery.

Sam Rutherford says the 150 years of A and P Shows reflects the role of the annual event.

“For a century and a half, we have been at the heart of our community, promoting agriculture, fostering innovation, and nurturing a deep sense of camaraderie i.e. rural to urban communities.”

Immediate past president Marlborough A and P Association William Harris is equally enthusiastic about this year’s special event saying the association has always been a place where friendships are forged, knowledge is shared, and innovation thrives.

“From the bustling showgrounds to the lively competitions, we have created a vibrant community that embodies the true spirit of Marlborough’s rural life,” he says.

The diversity of attractions will include wood chopping competition, sheep and pet sheep classes, dog trials, cattle breeds, sheep shearing, the equestrian Royal Event, creative displays of baking, photography, knitting, felting, weaving and the children’s section.

A popular event is Harcourts Future Farmer competition which is always a hit with the children along with foods stalls, arcade rides and visiting the animal nursery on site.

William Harris says this year is very special, a celebration of the Marlborough A and P Shows’ 150 years of fostering agricultural excellence and to a positive future.

The 150th Marlborough A and P Show will start with the Equestrian Royal Event On Friday 3 November, running through Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th. All other sections will be Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th November. Make it a date in your diary!