A LITTLE bit of the country is coming to town this weekend for the annual Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Show.
Now in its 99th year, the show promises something to suit all ages and interests – from traditional favourites such as livestock contests to modern attractions like showbags and rides.
Pakenham Agricultural and Horticultural Show society president George Wall is hoping the crowds top the estimated 7000 last year.
"While we have a real focus on families for the show, we have had to diversify in recent years to ensure there is something to suit all ages.
"It's about giving people something different each year but still giving them the types of attractions they expect at a show."
Mr Wall said the show has once again only been made possible through the dedication of a volunteer committee.
"We have about 30 people who really put their hearts and souls into helping the show come to fruition each year.
"Without the committee and support from the sponsors, we wouldn't have a show."
This year, major attractions include the arts and crafts pavilion, sheep shearing, woodturning, horse showjumping, dog highjump and flyball, Beaut Ute competition and the Iron Man and Woman events.
"We've got plenty of animals for everyone to see, bought from all over the state, including goats, horses, sheep, cattle, poultry, dogs and an animal nursery for the little kids." Mr Wall said.
"It's a good chance for country people to strut their stuff for the townsfolk."
Mr Wall said a special event this year will be a group of penny farthing bikes riding into the showgrounds.
"They'll start in the main street, ride along Railway Avenue, along Racecourse Road and into the showgrounds.
"It will be great for people to see these fantastic bikes from a past era."
A range of free entertainment will include an appearance by Humphrey B Bear, the Cardinia Civic Concert Band, the Great Aussie Bread Waiters Race and gumboot-throwing.
In the pavilions there will be competitions and displays of photography, cooking, needlework, knitting, horticulture, floral arrangements, wool spinning and weaving. Students from numerous Cardinia Shire schools will also show their work.
■The Pakenham Show is on from 9am to 5pm
Saturday at the Pakenham racecourse, Racecourse Road.
Cost: adults $15, concession $10, children 11 to 16 $5, children under 10 enter free, family two adults and two children under 16 and a vehicle $30.
Details: Pakenham Show website here.