The Robertson Agricultural and Horticultural Show Society Inc. traces its origins back to 1878, when farmers from the Robertson, Burrawang, Kangaloon and Wildes Meadow districts formed the Burrawang Farmers Club. At the time, the club acted as a community support group in the absence of local government, advocating for essential services such as proper roads, a police presence, and a rail link for the growing farming community.

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Meetings were held on the Thursday night closest to the full moon, allowing members to travel through the bush on horseback with the guidance of moonlight. Their commitment is remarkable when compared with today’s warm vehicles and sealed roads, one can only imagine the challenge when the moon was hidden behind clouds, fog, or rain (or all three, as often happens here!).

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In 1879, the idea of holding an agricultural show was proposed. The Club became the Burrawang and West Camden Agricultural Society, and preparations began for the first show, held on 21–22 April 1880 on a flat paddock in Dale Street, Burrawang. Rain fell on the first day (some things never change), but attendance remained strong with an estimated 1,600 visitors on day one and 2,000 on day two.

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By the fifth show in March 1884, the event had expanded to three days and offered prize money for the first time. A total of £45/8/- (around $90.80 today) was distributed across horses, cattle, butter, school exhibits, and plain and fancy work.

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Like many longstanding events, there were years when the show was cancelled. The 1919 show was abandoned due to the influenza epidemic, and no shows were held in 1942–43 when the Robertson Showground was occupied by Army units during WWII.

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These and many more fascinating stories, not only about the Show Society but about the wider community that are detailed in the Society’s book “The Winds of Change.”

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Today, the Robertson Show is known as the Premier Show of our Circuit. Though modest in size, it is praised for how effectively the grounds and resources are used to both entertain and educate visitors. Much of the charm lies in the fact that we have preserved the elements of the original 1880 show, making Robertson one of the last true country shows, welcoming young and old.

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The Pavilion remains a centrepiece, showcasing an impressive array of homemade and homegrown entries. Both Dairy and Beef Cattle competitions are well supported, and our feature Dog Show is a highlight for exhibitors and spectators alike. Horse events, including show jumping and sporting classes, continue to grow each year as more competitors join the “Robbo Show.”

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In recent years, we introduced our first Saturday Night Show, now a major attraction following the iconic Great Australian Potato Race, one of the biggest highlights of the weekend. This celebrated race draws competitors from across the region and beyond, all hoping to claim the title of “Champion.”

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The Night Show quickly became a crowd favourite and now sees record attendance each year, carried by unforgettable commentary from local legends Bruce, Paddy and Colin. Our afternoon and evening program embraces classic “homegrown” events; the Ute Pull, egg and gumboot throwing, Dog Jumping, Hay Stacking, and the Demolition Derby. All encouraging lively participation from spectators of all ages.

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As our community looks for something fresh each year, the committee continues to balance professional entertainment with our beloved novelty events, ensuring the Robertson Show grows without losing the unique country heart that has defined it since 1880.

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The Robertson Show is a not-for-profit organisation, run entirely by volunteers and supported through the generosity of our community, sponsors, and donors. If you would like to support the Show or explore sponsorship opportunities, please get in touch, your contribution helps keep this proud tradition thriving for future generations.