By Andrea Cross

As the Horsham Agricultural Society celebrates 150 years and prepares to welcome visitors to the 148th Grand Annual Horsham Show, it is worth reflecting on one simple question.

Why do agricultural societies still matter?

Over the past 150 years, the Horsham Show has changed with the times. 

Paper entry forms have become online registrations. Cash at the gate has become digital ticketing. 

The society now hosts weddings, conferences, 150km Feast and Smoke on the Water alongside its traditional agricultural events.

Some might ask whether an agricultural society has changed too much.

The answer is simple. No.

The purpose of the Horsham Agricultural Society remains exactly as it was in 1876: to promote the development of agricultural, pastoral, horticultural, viticultural, stock-raising and industrial pursuits and resources.

Everything we do is measured against that purpose.

Events like 150km Feast celebrate local producers and connect people with the food grown in our region. 

Smoke on the Water showcases local produce, meat and wine while supporting regional businesses. 

This year’s new Paddock to Product feature continues that journey, helping families discover where their food and fibre comes from and the industries that sustain our communities.

In many ways, Paddock to Product is not something new. It is a modern expression of why agricultural societies were created in the first place, to educate, inspire and encourage innovation in agriculture.

That is why our tagline, ‘A Weekend Festival with an Agricultural Heart’, means so much.

Visitors will enjoy fireworks, carnival rides, live entertainment, competitions and family activities, but agriculture remains the heart of the Horsham Show. 

It is why we continue to celebrate livestock, shearing, home produce, cookery, flowers, photography, craft and the people who produce and create them.

Today, the Horsham Show is proud to be recognised as Victoria’s sixth most popular agricultural show, but success is measured by more than attendance. 

It is measured by whether a child leaves understanding where bread begins, how wool becomes clothing or why agriculture remains vital to our future.

Agricultural societies have endured because they have adapted while remaining true to their purpose.

As the gates open this weekend, join Horsham councillors in The Stables from 3.30pm for a Devonshire tea as we celebrate 150 years of history and the future of agriculture.

The Horsham Show remains what it has always been – ‘A weekend Festival with an Agricultural Heart’.

For more information and tickets, visit the Horsham Show’s website horshamshow.com.au.

The entire September 23, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!