An exhausted but exhilarated Yass Show Society President, Rob McAuliffe said on Monday the weekend was a successful one. He was even generous enough to declare the rain to be the highlight of the 2017 Yass Show.

“Everyone needs the rain and it was the highlight,” Mr McAuliffe told the Tribune in his wash up.

“It dampened the place up a bit and when it finished, everyone knew it was time to get on with the show.”

The president acknowledged numbers were likely to be down on Saturday due to the downpour but that plenty of people donned their gumboots and came out when the skies had cleared for an enjoyable afternoon.

“Saturday was probably down a bit due to the weather but it certainly picked up in the afternoon. There was a good crowd for the rodeo, which went into the night and everyone enjoyed.

“The horse jumping also went into the afternoon, which would suggest numbers were up.”

Show-goers were spoiled for choice with the best the region has to offer on display over the weekend. Entries were strong in all categories, including livestock, flowers, food and art exhibits.

Squeals of laughter could be heard from sideshow alley and traditional show-stopping events like the wood chopping and horse jumping attracted throngs of keen observers. This year’s addition of Lego building displays also proved popular with both the young and the young at heart.

“The sheep entries provided good local competition, a new breed of cattle – the Speckle Park – was on show for the first time and the Lego exhibition was popular, and will be even bigger next year,” Mr McAullife said.

“There is always room for improvement but we are very happy with how it all went.”

The president paid tribute to the merry band of volunteers who ensure the smooth running of the show, year in and year out.

“Without them, we would have no Yass Show,” Mr McAuliffe said.

“All the sections are staffed by volunteers from the stewards to those setting up and cleaning the grounds after everyone has gone home.

“It is all because of their hard work.”