Show Wants More Home-grown Talent

Newcastle Herald

Saturday January 13, 2007

Donna Sharpe

ORGANISERS of Maitland's Hunter River Super Show are on a mission to save the annual event's agricultural heritage, calling on keen vegetable growers to exhibit their produce at next month's event.

In its heyday, the then Maitland Show was a fresh produce showcase, but the city's residential growth has overtaken much of the rural landscape.

Organisers are also keen to bolster the arts and crafts section, which includes floral arrangements.

East Maitland resident Claire Simmons, 92, is a life member of Maitland Garden Club and has been exhibiting floral arrangements at the show for almost 40 years.

"Age is no barrier and I think some of the younger ones who have beautiful gardens around the region should have a go," she said.

Maitland Showground manager Athol Tierney said the show's traditional exhibits were dwindling.

"There aren't as many people growing produce for commercial use but we would be calling on all those backyard growers to show us what they are growing at home," he said.

The 146th Hunter River Super Show will be held on February 16, 17 and 18 at Maitland Showground.

Donna Sharpe

© 2007 Newcastle Herald

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