Organisers of the Warrnambool Show are "reasonably confident" this year's event will go ahead.
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Vice president Roger Wilkinson said organisers were doing everything they could to ensure it would not have to be cancelled for a second year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in the wake of the cancellation of the Royal Melbourne Show.
"The Royal Melbourne Show is in a different situation from us," Mr Wilkinson said.
"They're in Melbourne and they're a lot bigger.
"One of their issues is putting in place a COVID plan for such a big crowd."
Mr Wilkinson said organisers were well aware that they may be forced to cancel due to the pandemic, but they are doing everything they go ahead if they can.
"Anything can happen, we accept that," he said.
"However, there seems to be reasonable confidence around the country show circuit that we can do something."
Mr Willkinson said while it was disappointing the Melbourne show wouldn't go ahead, there may be a silver lining for smaller country events.
"It may well be if Melbourne doesn't go ahead and the country shows do, that we might see some good attendance at our show," he said.
Mr Wilkinson said there would be some south-west residents who would be disappointed the Melbourne show has been cancelled.
He is on a fleece committee for the event and knows a number of producers who regularly show stock.
"It's good publicity and promotion for the best of the stud sheep," Mr Wilkinson said.
"If you're trying to sell rams to commercial breeders it helps to be recognised amongst the best."
The Royal Melbourne Show announced via its Facebook page it would not go ahead in 2021 on Wednesday.
"Unfortunately, the 2021 Royal Melbourne Show has been cancelled due to the ongoing uncertainty and operational constraints, challenges and risks associated with holding major events with large free roaming crowds during the COVID-19 pandemic," the post said.
"It's deeply disappointing that the Victorian community will not be able to come together with family and friends to enjoy the fun, discovery and excitement of the Royal Melbourne Show for the second consecutive year.
"We look forward to the Royal Melbourne Show returning bigger and better in 2022."
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