The Future of Our Show: We Need You to Step Forward
Following our recent post-(no)Show dinner and community feedback, we wanted to share an important update about the future of the Bellingen Show with our broader community.
Thank You, Bellingen
The overwhelming support and understanding you've shown following our difficult decision to cancel the 2025 Show has been incredible. When unsafe ground conditions from extended rainfall and flooding forced us to make that call just days before Show weekend, your messages of support reminded us why this community is so special.
Strong Foundations, But We Need Fresh Energy
We're pleased to report that the Bellinger River Agricultural Society remains financially stable. While the cancellation resulted in financial loss, good governance over the years means we can weather challenges like this. We're not facing insolvency – we're facing something much more fundamental.
We desperately need new people to join our committee.
144 Years of Community Spirit
Since 1881, through floods, pandemics, and world wars, the Bellingen Show has been created by our community, for our community. It's weathered incredible challenges and remained a cornerstone of our community calendar for 144 years.
But today, we face our greatest challenge yet.
Our passionate committee members have given years – some decades – of service to our community. They're ready to pass the torch, but without fresh faces willing to step into key roles, there simply will not be a Bellingen Show in 2026.
Without new committee members, our 144-year community tradition ends here.
Ready to Hit the Ground Running
Here's the encouraging news: we have extensive planning already completed from our cancelled 2025 Show that's ready to implement for a fantastic 2026 event. Plus, all current committee members in key positions will stay to mentor newcomers, ensuring you'll have experienced guidance and support.
Key Roles Available
We're actively seeking community members for these essential positions:
Trade Manager – coordinate trade stalls and displays
Sponsorship Manager – build relationships with our generous sponsors
Marketing & Publicity Manager – promote our Show across the region
Luncheon Room Manager – oversee our popular food service
Luncheon Room Chef – lead our volunteer kitchen team
Operations Manager – coordinate logistics and setup
Chief Horse Steward – manage our horse competitions
President – lead our Society into the future
Whether you have event management experience or simply passion for our community, we want to hear from you.
Get Involved
Interested in learning more?
Email: secretary@bellingenshow.com.au
Phone: 0498 483 915
Join our next committee meeting:
Wednesday 6 August, 5:30pm
Luncheon Booth, Bellingen Showground
(Light refreshments will follow the meeting)
Your Show, Your Choice
This is our community's Show – put on by us, for us. The future of this cherished tradition is truly in your hands. We've kept this Show alive for 144 years through everything life has thrown at us.
With your help, we can ensure it continues for another 144.
Contact Us:
Email: secretary@bellingenshow.com.au
Phone: 0498 483 915
The Bellinger River Agricultural Society acknowledges the Gumbaynggirr people as the traditional custodians of the land on which we hold our Show.
