COUNTRY shows have maintained they will continue to be viable in the wake of one of the largest Riverina shows being canned.
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Griffith Show was put in recess for 2015 last week, citing lack of volunteers and costs.
But Wagga Show Society, and a handful of smaller towns, believe it’s not the demise of country shows, despite dwindling crowd numbers.
Griffith’s gate takings almost halved from $50,000 in 2012 to just $28,000 last year, forcing what would have been the 95th show to be cancelled on October 4.
“I can’t see any flow on from Griffith affecting us at all,” Wagga Show Society president Bruce Ryan said.
“We’re certainly viable at the moment, I can’t foresee any dramas.
“Wagga has plans for the future and we intend to continue holding shows. We’ve had reasonably stable numbers over the past four or five years.”
Mr Ryan said show contributors and showgirls continued to be strongly represented.
Wagga had a strong and active committee, demonstrated by the show celebrating its 150th year last year, Mr Ryan added.
“It’s valuable for the town,” he said.
“It’s important to the rural community and a chance to show off their wares.”
But Lockhart Show Society vice president Wayne Healey believes a canned Griffith show could affect Lockhart and other smaller towns, as show contributors and horse riders might not continue doing the local show circuit.
“Financially we’re in a very sound position at Lockhart Show Society,” he said.
“In regards to local support, we do struggle at times.
“Lockhart is built on agriculture, that’s what gives it strength.”
Mr Healey said the viability of country shows relied on community support.
Due to hold its 69th show on October 27, The Rock Show Society doesn't expect fewer crowds or showies due to a canned Griffith show.
Secretary Joy Schultz said while they had an active and strong committee, they struggle financially and wouldn't be able to stage the show without sponsorship.
While gate numbers have gradually decreased over the years, horse and dog events have remained stable and they had their largest showgirl contingent last year with five entrants.
“I think (country shows) are still viable,” she confirmed
