Katanning Show to survive against odds as organisers start major facility upgrades

The Perth Royal Show might be cancelled this year, but that will not stop the Katanning Agricultural Show from delivering some much-needed positivity to families across the Great Southern. Premier Mark McGowan last month announced WA’s biggest show would not go on in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Plans to move the State into Phase 5, which would see all gathering restrictions lifted, were also put on hold until October 24. Coincidentally, that is the date set for Katanning’s 129th annual show. After drought, fires and a pandemic — in that order — organisers are determined to give thousands of people from the region a day to remember. The Katanning Agricultural Society is getting down to business, with work starting last week on the expansion of the main shearing shed and power upgrades to the showgrounds, backed by almost $125,000 from the Federal Government. KAS president Jill Kowald said the upgrades had been a long time coming. “Come showtime, the shed is full to capacity,” she said. “It is such a huge event at the Katanning Show because it is probably one of the richest shearing competitions around, so it does attract a lot of shearers. “This will enable more people to fit into the shed and make it more friendly and hospitable.” Ms Kowald said the show would go on under the safest conditions. The showground will be spread over the top oval of the Katanning Recreation Centre to reduce congestion, with hand sanitiser widely available. Despite hygiene costs putting an unprecedented strain on the show’s budget, Ms Kowald said entry to the show would remain free, with no-cost rides available for families. “Everything is scaled back but as the grants come in, it will allow more and more,” she said. “This year with COVID, we have to be very focused on hygiene and cleanliness, which is going to add a lot more money to the show budget that we would generally never have. “No one has to miss out on coming to the Katanning show. It is free to get in for everybody, young and old. “I think the community just need something positive to focus on and look forward to.” The show’s biggest-ever fireworks display is set to close the festivities with a bang. Ms Kowald said the return of COVID-19 to the community was the only thing that would convince organisers to call off the event. “We run it with our hearts; we love the show.” she said. “We feel it is such a good thing for Katanning. “If COVID-19 comes into WA, I will pull the pin but it will be my last resort and COVID-19 would have to be announced in the community for that to happen. “We are pushing along 100 per cent.” Shire of Katanning chief executive Julian Murphy described the show as a “reward” for the people of the Great Southern after a challenging 2020.