Wee Waa Show will go on with Gary Hibbens as president

The Wee Waa Show will go on in 2023 after Gary Hibbens agreed to stay on as president for another year.

Mr Hibbens first became president in 2020.

“It is a great honour to be the president of the show society and to have the committee put faith in me to do it again, it is humbling,” said Mr Hibbens.

“It is great to have a committee like the show society behind me, supporting me.

“And I’m looking forward to the show in 2023.”

As previously reported, Wee Waa Show Society was looking for a new president and there were concerns the popular event might not be able take place this year.

“I agreed to stay on for another 12 months to ensure the 2023 event goes ahead and to help build the committee member numbers’ up and bring some new faces in with the hope of finding a new president to take over in 2024.”

The role of president is a huge job, but Mr Hibbens said now would be the perfect time for anyone who is interested in the opportunity to learn the ropes under his and the committee’s guidance.

The position is not only a wonderful way to serve the community, but it also offers public speaking and networking opportunities, especially with other agricultural societies.

Show presidents gain a wealth of experience and skills, and are involved in the management of everything from paperwork to finances and entertainment.

The 2023 Wee Waa Show theme is ‘Together is better’. Publicity officer Janelle Schwager said the committee would warmly welcome a fine arts steward, and she encouraged people to take up the opportunity and get in touch to find out more.

“This has always been a popular section, and one which always creates much chatter amongst those walking through the pavilion.

“We do not want to lose this section”.

The Wee Waa Show has a long and proud history, the inaugural Wee Waa Show was held in 1927 but the idea and movement to start a show in town began in 1913 – delayed due to the circumstances of war and depression.

The show weekend is a much-loved attraction that sees locals, families and visitors gather in the Cotton Capital to enjoy a range of activities and amusements for people of all ages, from the Young Woman of the Year announcement to the hotly-contested baking competitions, baby show, cattle parade, dog trials, and a favourite with the children – the famous lolly drop from the sky.