Poultry fancier: Castle Hill and Hills District Agricultural Society president Peter Gooch will be a poultry steward at the 2013 Castle Hill Show. He will also exhibit his Black Leghorn Bantams which, he said, are judged on their legs, comb, lobe, plumage and tail. Picture: Natalie Roberts
WITH three weeks to go places are fast filling up for this year's Castle Hill Show.
"We're full up for stall-holders and our schools section will be full for the first time in several years," said show president Peter Gooch (pictured). "It's always a popular show and well patronised but in the past few years interest has really increased.
"That's typical of all agricultural shows due to the popularity of lifestyle programs and, I think, people coming back to the simple ways."
The traditional agricultural show ticks people's boxes, he said.
"About 60 per cent of the 195 agricultural shows throughout NSW are well over 100 years old. It's a tried-and-true recipe that works."
The Castle Hill Show is 127 years old.
"While The Hills has changed much from its early beginnings we still provide food and fibre although it's now part of the modern urban farming movement," said Mr Gooch, who will be a steward of the poultry section which bestows awards including Champion of Show, Champion Large Fowl Softfeather and Champion Bantam.
"This year we'll have a special award from the Vern Carn family for Champion of Show.
"Vern was a long-time organiser of the poultry section and a poultry judge, after which the poultry pavilion was named.
"We've also introduced youth-themed competitions, including a battle of the bands, and representation from the defence forces and a light-horse demonstration.
"There'll be something for everyone — whether it's the animal nursery and professional puppeteer for the kids, crafts for mum or leatherwork, showjumping, heavy horses and woodwork for dad."
■ Castle Hill Show is on March 8 to 10 at Castle Hill Showground. Details/registrations: castlehillshow.com.au or visit the show office in Castle Hill Showground, 9am to 3pm weekdays.