The year’s ever popular Wauchope Show will bring its own celebrity status to the township.
A book has been launched to honour the event.
“The Royal of the North’ traces of the history of the Wauchope Show and associated stories through extensive research and interviews with the families of pioneers who established what has become the perhaps the Hastings’ longest-running annual community event.
The result is 200 pages and over 200 photographs, many previously unseen, providing a window into Wauchope’s way of life and primary industry over the past century.
The book was commissioned by the Show Society and compiled by Garry Bruem, his wife Janice and their friend, Trevor Thatcher.
It’s the second book from the trio who earlier worked together on a history of the Bain Bridge for its Centenary in 2007.
Mr Bruem said the “Royal of the North’ set out to provide a permanent and lasting record of the event at the heart of the Hastings’ rural sector.
As an added bonus readers may find their own name or photograph, or that of a family member.
“Agricultural Shows are an important part of rural communities, our Wauchope Show is no exception. It showcases the efforts of local animal breeders, equestrians, cooks, artists, school children etc. to achieve their best, and as well, encompasses a wide range of entertainment and interests,” he said.
“It has for many years been an important event on the social calendar for many people where long standing friendships are renewed.
“Written to appeal to a wide range of readers, the book containing stories of the early pioneers of the Hastings Valley, especially of those who were associated with the Wauchope Show, and the former Port Macquarie Show.”
The “Royal of the North’ will be on sale both days of the show priced at $20.
The Official Launch by the Deputy Premier, Andrew Stoner, will take place on Saturday,
April 21.
