Show blows Pakenham away

Floum and Xylom entertained the crowd high in the sky on their stilts. 323968_06 Photos: ROB CAREW

By Shelby Brooks

Pakenham’s rural heritage was on display for the 112th Agricultural and Horticultural Show.

The Parklea Pakenham Show saw strong crowd numbers in the morning before Mother Nature had other ideas.

Unfortunately at 1pm, due to the increasing wind and the unfavourable forecast, the decision was made to close the outdoor section of the show for safety reasons. Some of the attractions were able to be moved into the hall and library but space was limited.

Pakenham and District Agricultural and Horticultural Show president David Young said he was happy with how the day unfolded.

“Apart from the declaration of the total fire ban the day before and high winds from 9am onwards, it went very well,” he said.

“There was a good crowd early on despite the conditions. If only the wind had held off for a few more hours.”

Mr Young said a highlight for him on the day was seeing younger members of the community actively involved in the show’s traditions.

“It was certainly a highlight to see young people actively involved with the sheep and pavilion. So many people were engaged in a positive way with the show,” he said.

Another highlight Mr Young said was the “multicultural flavour” the Living Learning Centre Pakenham brought with performances in the morning.