Royal Hobart Show begins at the Hobart Regatta Grounds

From the Outback Stockman to racing pigs, animals rule the roost at the Royal Hobart Show. Here’s what to expect on day one.

The Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania CEO Scott Gadd ahead of the Royal Hobart Show. Picture: Chris Kidd

The Outback Stockman and his menagerie of animals are returning to the Royal Hobart Show after seven years, just one of the attractions for 2023.

A Queensland “horse-whisperer” and former rodeo cowboy, Lachie Cossor has wowed crowds nationally with his talent for horsemanship and animal training, including with his Brahman bull, Barney.

Royal Agricultural Society Tasmania CEO Scott Gadd said that animals and animal shows were what stuck with the younger audiences year after year.

“The animals are what give kids the life experiences – they’re the memories they leave with and never forget,” he said.

“There’s usually three tiers to this; the rides, the showbags and the animals. They all tend to rate equally, but animals bring more stories and colour to our shows.”

Lachie Cossor with Barney the Brahman ahead of the Royal Hobart Show. Picture: Chris Kidd

Determined to make a “dynamic transformation” of the Hobart Regatta Grounds, organisers worked around the clock battling against the rain and wind on Wednesday to bring the showgrounds to life for Thursday’s open.

Mr Gadd said he was proud of the history and stories behind the show, now in its 201st year.

“There’s nothing like the show – there’s nothing that brings the bush to the city like a Royal Hobart Show,” he said.

“It’s still a great way and the only way really to get your kids engaged with animals and find out where their food and fibre comes from.”

The event moved to the Regatta Grounds last year, while renovations at the showgrounds in Glenorchy are underway.

Mr Gadd said more city-based families attended last year’s show, which had the highest attendance in 10 years.

To bring in more Tasmanians to this year’s Hobart Show, organisers are promising a mix of old favourites and new delights for all ages.

Noah’s Racing Pigs, Jet Pack Entertainment and Reptile Rescue will all be returning with shows across the three-day event, with much-loved show bags, carnival rides and food stalls scattered around the Regatta Grounds.

The Royal Hobart Show kicks off on Thursday from 9am to 5pm, Friday from 9am to 10pm and Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

Thursday entertainment

9am - Beef Cattle Breed Classes judging at the Goods Shed

9:25am or 2pm - Noah’s Racing Pigs at the Grandstands

10:50am, 1.30pm or 3.30pm - The Outback Stockman Show in front of the Commercial Exhibitors marquee

10:30am, 1pm, 3.15pm - Jetpack Entertainment at the waterfront

2:35pm - 300mm Standing Handicap Final at the Woodchopping Arena