As I write this, our region is being buffeted by strong winds ahead of the first cold front of winter. After one of the driest periods on record over the past two years, it is an oddly comforting sound. Good summer rains, an early start and wet seeding have been a welcome change. While there is much uncertainty in the world, the season has provided our farming and wider community with some certainty that the year ahead will be a positive one.

Another certainty is that the Crystal Brook Show will once again be a fantastic day out for all ages. We are delighted to welcome South Australian Grain Producer of the Year and Fat Farmers co-founder Ben Wundersitz to officially open this year’s Show.

A major new attraction in 2026 is the Ag Learning Centre, proudly supported by Rabobank. This interactive space will give visitors the opportunity to get hands-on with agriculture and animals, including a blade shearing demonstration showcasing how sheep were shorn before mechanisation. We are also proud to announce the Show as a Connecting Communities event sponsored by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions through the Family and Business Support Program as part of the $97 million Drought Support Package.

Returning favourites include Dinkum Dinos with an all-new show, the mechanical bull, Bumbles the Clown, Kemmy Trail Bags, oversized games, a giant sandpit, petting zoo, giant bubbles and live music throughout the day.

There are also several exciting updates to our exhibitor sections, including a new Encouragement Ring for Horses in Action, a $500 Most Points prize in Grain and Fodder, and the largest Led Steer prize pool in the Show’s history, exceeding $8,000.

I would like to thank the North Western Agricultural Society committee, our convenors, volunteers, members and exhibitors for their continued commitment to making the Show possible. While the people behind the Show may change from year to year, their dedication remains constant. We sincerely thank those moving on and welcome the new volunteers stepping into these important roles. Together with the talent and enthusiasm of our community, they help ensure the Show continues to thrive, with pavilion and livestock entries consistently exceeding 2,000 each year.

Finally, thank you to our sponsors, particularly our Platinum Sponsors — Kerin Agencies, Bunge and Pacific Blue — and to everyone who contributes their time, resources and support. Every contribution helps deliver another successful Crystal Brook Show.

I look forward to seeing you all at the 147th Crystal Brook Show.