The North Coast community and businesses got behind this year’s Elders Love Lismore Show with a record number of entries in the Fine Arts competitions and more exhibitors than ever, North Coast National Elders Love Lismore Show Vice-President Ron Chittick said.

“There was a lot on offer at this year’s show, with new attractions and rides,” he said.

“The new PopZone and Cosplay competition were hugely successful, with the community embracing the new concept, and the fact that we had record entries across many categories, shows that the Show remains the heart of our community.

“More than 20,000 people came to the Show, which is less than last year’s record-breaking crowd, but perfectly understandable given the cost-of-living pressures, which is why the Show committee decided not to increase the cost of entry.

“Those who came were treated to some great entertainment, including the always popular Monster Trucks, FMX Motor Cross and the TNR Fireworks. You wouldn’t see any one of these anywhere else for less than the cost of entry, let alone all three plus more.

“We also hosted our first Australian Woodchop Championship in a long time, as well as two State Championships, thanks to our sponsor Hurford’s Hardwood.

“And I cannot remember the last time our Car Pavilion was so full.

“With warm temperatures, particularly on Saturday, our new low-sensory Chill and Charge Café proved a popular place to seek refuge from the heat.

“We also had more than 350 head of cattle at the Show, and our Equestrian and Show Jumping events drew healthy entries.

“There is a year’s planning and a lot of work that goes into putting the three days of the Show together, and it’s all done by volunteers. On behalf of the Show Committee, I would like to thank our Stewards and all the volunteers for their time and effort to ensure everyone enjoys their time at the Show.

“I would also like to thank our naming rights sponsor Elders, which has given us great support and thank you to all our other sponsors, big and small. Without our sponsors we simply could not put on the Show, so please support them.”

Now that the 2024 Elders Lismore Show is over, major works will be completed in the next 12 months before the 2025 Lismore Show.

North Coast National has secured significant funding for significant capital works to the showground, which includes the grandstands and cattle yards.