Big crowds explore innovation in agriculture at 93rd Brunswick Show

The 93rd Brunswick Show had a phenomenal turnout on the weekend as visitors from across the State headed into town to celebrate innovation in agriculture.

Among the thousands at the Brunswick Showgrounds on Saturday was Premier Roger Cook.

The official opening was headed by Triple M presenter Cliff Reeve, who said the countless volunteers made this year’s show possible.

“We just want to say thank you very much for everything you do, because none of this would be possible without the committee,” he said.

Mr Reeve invited the Premier on stage, who said it was wonderful to be at the show with such a huge crowd.

“I reckon we might be looking at a record,” Mr Cook said.

Following the welcome to country by Bill Turner and his granddaughter Alifaye Gidgup, and South West musician Amberley Milne’s rendition of the national anthem, Brunswick Agricultural Society committee member Lauren Patane officially opened the show.

She said she felt privileged to be on stage and there have been many before her who dedicated a lot more time, effort and years into the show.

The 2023 WA Rural Ambassador admitted she felt several years under-qualified to open the show but said her presence on stage was a strong reflection of this year’s theme “innovation in agriculture”.

“One of the core roles of the Brunswick Agricultural Society and this show is to promote our thriving agricultural industries right here on our doorstep,” Ms Patane said.

“And I have to say, the Brunswick Show does agriculture so well.”

Society president David Power said it was a great pleasure to welcome so many to the 93rd annual show, where the spirit of community “absolutely shines brightly”.

“This year, we’ve had a record number of exhibitors attending the Brunswick show, which we are extremely grateful for,” he said.

Mr Power said each year there was a charity of choice to fundraise for, with this year’s selection being Toby For Childhood Cancer.

“When Toby FCC began, a clear issue was identified in Western Australia, there is simply not enough funding for childhood cancer research and support devices,” he said.

“Toby FCC’s mission was to build a charity that put every single dollar note donated towards the cause — this is where we make a difference, where we can bridge the gap.”

Mr Power thanked the countless people who had made the show possible, saying the community’s commitment and passion was the “backbone” of the event.

“The planning basically starts the following week after the show, and it continues to amaze me the amount of time that people and businesses are willing to contribute to make the Brunswick Show a popular event,” he said.

“As we celebrate our past and look forward to the future, let us continue to support one another and nurture the bonds that make, not only Brunswick but the wider South West, a wonderful place to live and work together.

“We can ensure that our community reigns strong and vibrant for generations to come.”