THE ongoing drought, recent bushfire crisis and water restrictions won't stop a stream-lined Upper Hunter Show from going ahead at the Muswellbrook Showground in 2020.
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While many similar proceedings - at Pambula, Bowral, Albion Park, Candelo, Kiama, Eurobodalla, Berry, Bundarra, Cobargo, Braidwood and Bemboka - have already been cancelled, that outcome did not enter the equation for local organisers.
The Upper Hunter Show Society (UHSS) has instead followed Bega's lead of dropping equestrian-related events on Friday and Saturday, March 20 and 21.
That includes the showjumping and prestigious State of Origin polocrosse series, among others.
"We certainly agonised over what we could keep in the current climate," president Keith Googe said.
"The committee took in the welfare of people and animals, as well as the environmental issues (like drought and dust).
"We had no choice with the showjumping, the same with the polocrosse.
"We simply can't provide the surface, due to the lack of rain, they demand at the moment.
"The hardest decision, however, was postponing the horse ring events.
"They epitomise what country shows are all about; they set the backdrop.
"So, we've had to come up with an idea to maximise it [the show] as an entertainment extravaganza without penalising the usual competitors.
"We conducted a number of meetings.
"And, the solution was: cancel now and host the ring events with the Muswellbrook Charity Rodeo in October.
"That schedule would also fit in with the Singleton, Quirindi and Merriwa shows.
"Agricultural Societies Council of NSW Ltd (ASC) president Tim Capp has given us an undertaking that it will be affiliated, too, with points towards the Sydney Royal Easter in 2021.
"So, competitors won't miss out on the opportunity to improve their tally."
Mr Googe is hopeful the wider community understands the UHSS's position, with many men and women on the land struggling to make ends meet.
"No one can predict the weather," he said.
"But, there is one major positive.
"The Upper Hunter Show will still be on; and we're looking at other activities to fill the void.
"We'll continue to have the cattle events, for example, while the rodeo is a goer for the Friday night (March 20) as it takes place on a sand-based arena.
"Unfortunately, it's tough for the show circuit - and has been for a little while.
"Everyone's feeling it [the drought].
"We're not alone but we want to offer something for Upper Hunter residents.
"With any luck, people will turn out in droves to support us next month."
