It's often said the show must go on.

But the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic means there will be no Wagga Show this year.

The Wagga Show Society's decision to cancel the event - which was due to be held on September 11 and 12 - is a huge blow for the organisers, exhibitors and attendees.

For many, the show is a highlight on the city's social calendar and this year's would have been the 156th annual event. The first Wagga Show was held in November 1864.

The cancellation, while understandable given the huge logistical task of running a show, comes as lockdown restrictions start to ease.

Cultural and sporting events at outdoor venues with a capacity of 40,000 can have up to 10,000 people from July 1.

Announcing the further easing of restrictions, Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the move would "allow vital community hubs in the regions to open, such as showgrounds".

However, it appears the weekend's announcement might was just a little too late for the show society. It said the current restrictions, and uncertainty about when changes might be made, meant members voted not to proceed with the 2020 event.

The Junee Show in October also won't be going ahead, while the Ganmain Show Society's August event has been cancelled.

We can only hope the pandemic doesn't spell the end for our regional agricultural shows, which have certainly been dealt a tough hand in recent years. Many communities have endured droughts and bushfires.

Even the shows that have been able to weather the storm have battled to keep dwindling volunteer numbers in check.

Organisers worry an ageing volunteer base will eventually reach a tipping point unless younger generations step up.

To that end, the Wagga Show Society has already formed a committee of young people tasked with bringing new ideas. So there's every likelihood the event will be back bigger and better in 2021.

And, should the COVID situation change, the show society hasn't ruled out running an alternative event this year.

Watch this space. Our show societies are a resilient bunch - they have to be.

Just like the communities they serve, the societies will get through this and the show will go on.

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