This Day in History: 1996-10-12

On a fairly warm day, the 143^rd (actually the 138^th) Toodyay Agricultural Show in the Toodyay Showgrounds was opened by Grant Woodhams (ABC Regional Radio announcer) from Geraldton. This year, the completed Youth Hall was used for the photography and woodcraft sections. The age range for the young adult classes was reduced to 16-18 years. A Hotham Valley Tourist Railway steam train pulled 18 carriages to Toodyay. Max Trenorden MLA opened the new Wool Pavilion. Bush Fire Awards were presented.

The President’s Trophy for most points in the sheep, cattle and wool sections was won by P. Wilson. Jennifer Kobulniczky won the Overall Trophy in the Ring events. The Jean Bushell Perpetual Family Trophy for most points in the hobbycraft, children’s, floriculture and vegetables sections was won for the third time by Russell and Toni Chrimes and family. The 100hp Tractor Pull (sponsored by Avon Skip Bins) was a new feature. David Chitty was the President of the Toodyay Agricultural Society and Rita Harrison the new Secretary/Treasurer.

Sources:
Toodyay Agricultural Society. Schedule of prizes, 1996.
Toodyay herald, Oct. 1996, p.16; Nov. 1996, pp. 1 (photo), 5 (photo), 15 (photos)-17.