Gallery: Heytesbury’s best exhibits on display at show

A GOOD country show will give you an atmosphere you can’t buy, according to the organiser for this year’s Heytesbury show. 

With everything from dachshund races to whip cracking unicyclists, show secretary Libby Van Donk might be right. 

While the tally of numbers through the gate might not be complete, Ms Van Donk was overwhelmingly positive about Saturday’s event. 

Numbers were easily up on last year, which bore the brunt of inclement weather. 

“We had twice as many as last year,” she said. 

Trying to make up with this year’s show, the organiser said it was tempting to make some big changes. 

But leaving them the way they are helps preserve them as iconic events of the country town. 

“You try and keep the classic country show happening,” Ms Van Donk said. 

“This is what keeps us as the agricultural show we are. It’s a tradition you don’t want to lose.” 

The 78th Heytesbury show was no exception to that with craft, agriculture and rides taking up the most space at the Simpson Recreation Reserve. 

“It’s a really nice country setting,” Ms Van Donk said yesterday. “It’s an atmosphere you just can’t help but admire and our venue is magic.” 

There were some modern additions, including a sustainable garden display aimed at getting more home-made produce into the kitchen. 

Ms Van Donk said equestrian events also drew in competitors from afar. 

The show organiser also thanked the community for getting behind the event.