The Mil Lel Spring Show was back to full bloom on the weekend after a two-year hiatus, which included a last minute cancellation in 2021.
The main show day was on Saturday while some of the additional horse events ran on the Sunday.
In a special start to the event, Mil Lel Agriculture and Horticultural Society treasurer Liza Kirby was awarded with life membership at the opening of the celebrations after contributing more than 10 years to the show, much of which was in her current role.
Mrs Kirby said the committee was thrilled with the crowd they had on the day.
“The gate was not quite a record gate, but it was very close to, so we were very pleased with the numbers,” she said.
“It is definitely back to how it was before COVID-19 because we had as many showgoers as we did at the last few shows.
“Our goal is to put on an affordable family friendly show for the community which we feel was achieved.”
The inaugural Stockman’s Challenge ran over the two days and the Hunts and Hurdles on the Sunday made for a “very successful” horse section.
There was an abundance of indoor entries in the Mil Lel Hall from all things making, baking, and creating.
Mrs Kirby said it was really nice to see people spending time and having a look at the indoor entries.
“There were a lot of people going through the hall, perhaps more than previous years and there was often a queue to get in,” she said.
“A highlight was the first ever Men’s Chocolate Cake Competition which was won by local farmer David Partridge.
“We had a lot of entries in the inaugural Decorated Bird House competition, some of which were really cute.
“The winner Elishia Ploenges made her birdhouse about 15 years ago from cattle sticks.”
Pleasant Park CWA members were “flat out” catering all day, providing baked goods and beverages outside of the hall.
Mrs Kirby said it was really interesting having the K9’s by Kaz dog agility course at the event.
“I think that it was quite successful, and a lot of people had their dogs on leads at the show to participate,” she said.
“We were pleased with the large number of stalls which were interesting for showgoers.
“The Rotary Club of Mount Gambier made their spiral chips and fairy floss which was amazing.”
There was a stall by EcoPlas which had recycled plastic benches and fence posts on display.
The face painting, glitter tattoos and jumping castle were popular amongst the children as were the giant boardgames which included Connect Four and Jenga.
The Old McDonald’s Farm animal nursery was a popular stop with pets such as miniature goats, pigs, and chickens getting fed by children.
Mrs Kirby said the Mil Lel Steam and Machinery Association was also pleased with its entries.
“They had lots of people going to look and giving rides which are always popular,” she said.
“There was a large potato harvester built by a local farmer on top of the hill which was interesting to see.”
Mrs Kirby said it was very rewarding and exciting to put the show on for the community for the first time in three years.
“This year more than ever it was a real social catchup for people,” she said.
“I saw families that have actually moved away come back just to meet up with people for the show.
“We were very well supported with a great number of volunteers which was initially a concern.
“A huge thankyou to our sponsors especially Grant District Council, volunteers and showgoers, who this show would not be possible without.”
