Some competition events will still continue behind closed doors, but Kyabram AH&P Society secretary Janelle McDonald said the vast majority of events and entertainment would not be going ahead.
The cancellation, along with the loss of other events such as the Kyabram Rodeo in 2021, has delivered a significant blow, according to Mrs McDonald, and the financial fallout may be felt for years to come.
“To get back to where we were (before COVID-19) is years down the track,” she said.
The loss of income will not just be felt by show organisers, Mrs McDonald said, but the numerous community groups such as the Lions Club and other volunteers who traditionally help with the running of the event.
Unlike many other industries, rural and regional shows have not qualified for substantial government assistance, something keenly felt by the Victorian Showmen’s Guild, which represents carnival operators who tour the state.
Guild representative Justine Sinclair said the loss of the 2021-22 show season could see her members out of work until late next year.
“This is going to knock on until the September season in 2022,” she said.
Issues with insurance are also plaguing the show industry, with many brokers refusing to underwrite public liability insurance for more the $10 million. Most shows require public liability insurance of at least $20 million, according to Ms Sinclair.
The list of cancelled and postponed events for this year’s Kyabram Show is long, according to Mrs McDonald; however, organisers will still be running those competitions that can be held away from the public.
The horse section has been postponed until February next year. The dairy cattle section is also postponed and may not run until next year’s show.
Goats, poultry and caged birds have been cancelled, as has the flower and plant section on advice from stewards.
But in good news for some entrants, the craft, crochet, knitting, patchwork and photography sections will be run during the week leading up to show day although none will be open to the public.
“It's sort of a drop-off and pick-up and there will still be prizes,” Mrs McDonald said.
Entrants are encouraged to contact the AH&P society to arrange for the delivery of entries during the week ahead of Saturday, October 16.
“As the show will be closed to the general public, we feel this might be a great opportunity for new exhibitors to have a practice with entering,” Mrs McDonald said.
Junior and rural ambassador awards will also go ahead.
In a rare piece of good news for the Kyabram AH&P secretary, Victoria Agricultural Shows Ltd awarded Mrs McDonald and her late husband, Neville, ‘Meritorious Service’ awards in June for their services to the industry.
Anyone wishing to enter the Kyabram Show competitions still slated to run is urged to call the secretary on 0428 992 450 for entry forms and details.
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