The first Show meeting was held in the Kempsey School of Arts (later Municipal Chambers and now where the Skating Rink is); on 7th June 1881. There were 47 Subscribers and the meeting presided over by Mr F G Panton JP. With donations totalling £189/16/6 [$379.65] promised the Macleay A H & I Association was formed. Mr F G Panton was also elected as President

The first committee members were:- P S Selfe, R Campbell, W D Scott JP, J McMaugh, C Sutherland, J Marshall, R Hayes, L B Rudder, A Cochrane, Wm T Dangar, Wm Johnstone, Jnr, H W T Lee, J Johnstone Snr, Wm Nance, J Ducat, J Clarke, Dr R H Simes, C Basche and E A Coleman.

The first Show was held on September 7th & 8th,1881 near the Good Templars’ Hall, near Belgrave and Holman Streets, Kempsey. Horse and cattle winners received gold, silver and bronze medals. An auction was held on the 2nd afternoon.

In addition, there was a “ploughing match” in what was known as “Ramsay’s paddock” and at one time the site of the Salvation Army Citadel. There was £22/-/- prizemoney and a 10-guinea cup which was provided for 3 years.Blood and Draught horses (bred locally), Beef and fat cattle (also bred locally and reared chiefly on the Upper Macleay were well represented. Also Dairy produce, Pigs, Poultry,Fruit & Vegetables, Farm implements, including locally grown Maize were well represented. The Butter exhibited, was made in Wooden Churns. Cheese-making was also home industry at the time.

Future Dates

24-25 April 2012

Show Contact Details

Kempsey.Cnt Nth Coast Nat Agric Soc Ltd
Maxine McKenzie
PO Box 121
WEST KEMPSEY NSW 2440
Ph: 02 65624178
Mobile: 0419 251361
Fax: 02 65624178
Email: secretary@kempseyshow.com.au
Website: www.kempseyshow.com