With three weeks to go until the gates open for the 2024 Elders Lismore Show, the official launch was yesterday at the Lismore Showgrounds.

The Lismore Show has been running for the last 139 years and has been a mainstay event for our community every year since, with a couple of difficult years, war and Covid.

North Coast National A & I Society President John Gibson said the popular Show would return with all the usual favourites, as well as what are sure to become new favourites, like Pop Zone.

“Every year, the show evolves, and this year, I am happy to announce we will be hosting Pop Zone, including Cosplay, for the first time. It is where fantasy and imagination rule,” he said.

(Cosplay will be a popular addition to this year's Elders Lismore Show in the new PopZone. Photo: Lismore City Council)

“I am also happy to announce that this year, we will also host prestigious National and State Woodchop titles, attracting the best contestants from across the country and state.

“This year, we also have a Chill and Charge zone, which is a quiet zone for people to relax and recharge themselves and their phones.”

“It is not long until October, so now is the time to get ready for the return of our regular popular competitions and exhibitions. We already have some great attractions booked, including the Ashton Circus that will perform throughout each day and Monster Trucks.

“The very popular FMX bikes will return, along with a petting zoo, a Lego competition for schools, reptiles, jet packs, fireworks and a community stage with a range of local acts.

“The Show has been at the heart of our community since 1885 and is where memories are made. I invite everyone to come along this year to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

“Once again, I would like to thank our naming rights sponsor, Elders, and all our sponsors. Without them, the Show could not go on.”

Another integral event of the Lismore Show is the North Coast National Young Women and Teen Showgirl Competitions.

Nominations are now open. So, if you're between 13 and 25, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and make a difference. The Young Woman competition is for those aged 18 to 25, and Teen Showgirl is for girls aged 13 to 17.

(2023 Young Women runner-up Tegan Maluta, winner Lilly Munce and 3rd place Eliza O'Toole)

This is your chance to be an ambassador for your community, showcase your passion for agriculture and promote Lismore and the Lismore Show.

For more information about how to apply for the Young Woman and Teen Showgirl competitions, go to https://northcoastnational.com.au. Entries close on 4 October.