More than 6000 expected for 154th Dalby Show

After setting a world record at last year’s event, organisers for the 154th Dalby Show are targeting young people to get involved and safeguard the event’s future.

After a record-breaking 2023 Dalby Show, organisers are hopeful for a big 2024. Picture: Emily Devon

Organisers are gearing up for another exciting weekend at the 154th Dalby Show.

Last year’s event saw attendees smash their own 2021 world record for ‘most vintage stationary engines running at once’ with 471 engines and organisers say there’s plenty of excitement to be had again this year.

Dalby and District Show Society treasurer Rob Parsons said there would be something for everyone at this year’s event.

“People can expect a lot of sideshow involvement both big and small, the machinery displays will be as good as we’ve had for a long time, the pavilions will be great, and the photography competition which closed today has 375 entries,” he said.

“The sheep dog trials are exciting and we have 90 dogs entered, cattle entries are strong and the horses are even better than usual.

“The rodeo on Saturday night is also a pretty big draw card.”

Dalby & District Show Society achieved two world records at last year’s Dalby Show. Picture: contributed

Mr Parsons said the long running event was important for the community which had faced hardships throughout Covid and the 2022 floods.

“Times have been tough and the show brings everyone together. Last year we had about 6000 people in attendance and this year I am hoping for something the same over the two days,” he said.

“Last year we had a couple of car loads of people come up from Bribie Island, they got out of bed on the Saturday morning with nothing to do, drove to the show and had an amazing time.

“We get a few like that who travel from outside the region, we also have lots of people from Toowoomba come out to put entries into the pavilions.”

More than 500 vintage engines have arrived at the Dalby Show for 2023. Picture: Emily Devon

Mr Parsons said it was important to get young people involved in the show to help continue its more than a century and a half of success.

“This year we’ve put on more things for the kids to do, we’ve started a new area for kids to play, do exhibits and paint eggs,” he said.

“There’s three old people out here today, the youngest of which is 71 and the oldest 83 and we are setting up the grounds ourselves but we are laughing a lot and that’s what matters.

“In years to come those young ones will be us old ones so It is very important we get them involved now because we need them for the future.

“I hope people come along and enjoy themselves, we work hard and do our absolute best to give them what they want.”

The event kicks off on Friday April 12 at the Dalby Regional Saleyards.

Originally published as More than 6000 expected for 154th Dalby Show