ANN THOMPSON
The annual A&P Show has always been a wonderful showcase of what went on on farm, where all things animal and fowl were poked and prodded, ummed and ahed over. Is this cow the best example of its breed and no, how can the judge possibly think this pig is better than mine?
It has also been the place where big and little people from town and country have shown off their culinary, gardening, flower arranging, photography and handcraft skills. Equestrian events have always been popular, too, and no A&P show is without the woodchopping, shearing and vintage farm machinery. There have always been plenty of activities for the children to do, too, while Mum and Dad spend a long time watching ‘boring’ things or catching up with old friends.
Gradually, over the years, fewer animals have been shown, and the discovery of Mycoplasma bovis in cattle in 2017 led to cattle being banned from the show altogether. Thankfully, biosecurity measures for showing all animals and fowl have been stepped up so that even cattle can now be shown again.
It is with great pleasure that I can report that at the 125th Golden Bay A&P Show held late January in Takaka, there were more sheep and cows on display than there have been for many years. While the sheep were not part of the Grand Parade (they are very difficult to point in the right direction!), the cows and calves made a great show as they were proudly led around the field.
All the old favourites were there too, but over the years a few things have fallen by the wayside. Marching girls and Highland Dancing come to mind, at least here in the Bay. Their place has been taken over by such things as gymnastics on horseback.
Federated Farmers has always played a part in helping run the A&P Show, both on the day and behind the scenes in the run up to the event and in the aftermath. Daphne Woods, who is also the financial whiz behind the local Federated Farmers’ branch, dons that same hat as treasurer for the event. Luckily she has reliable staff on farm, allowing her to dedicate herself, along with the rest of the A&P Show Committee, to making sure the Show is successful.
More than ever, this event helps connect town people with country people.
This year’s Show was one of the best! Thanks to all those who worked behind the scenes and stood behind counters, trade-stands and stalls.
