By Shaun Inguanzo
THE DANDENONG Show will rely upon the dedication of more than 1000 volunteers as it swings into action this weekend.
Entering its 134th year, the Dandenong Show is organised by the Dandenong Agricultural and Pastoral Society with the help of an army of show supporters.
Both the show and society have been in existence since 1871, but it is still relatively younger than both the 150yearold Royal Melbourne Show, and the 157yearold Berwick Show.
Dandenong Agricultural and Pastoral Society secretary Lynne Ferris said the Show was originally geared towards showing livestock and other farm livestock.
Over the years the Show has transformed into a family event full of entertainment with rides, showbags, and entertainers.
However, Ms Ferris said the agricultural heritage was just as important as ever.
“We try to maintain the agricultural importance of the area in an educational way.”
The Show is expected to attract about 20,000 visitors over two days and Ms Ferris said the event could not run without the help of volunteers.
“We very much rely on volunteers because all we have got are volunteers.”
Stewards and judges donate their time, she said, as well as more than 1000 avid show fans helping behind the scenes.
Ms Ferris said these would include community groups operating a plethora of stalls as part of their fundraising campaigns.
The Dandenong Show will run this weekend, 12 and 13 November at Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong.