History of the Charters Towers Show - FULL ARTICLE

Excerpt from Sumpton’s Gold Rush Gazette - Friday 26th of July 2024

Photo of Charters Towers Show ride "Cliff Hanger" from 2023

The Excelsior Library published a brief history of the Charters Towers Show from the archives in anticipation for the upcoming annual event.

The details from the archives highlight what has changed about the long running Charters Towers Show run by the Towers Pastoral, Agricultural and Mining Association, and what has stayed the same.

“The TPA&M held its first Exhibition in 1880 - that's just 7 years after the town came into existence,” The statement read.

“The Show Grounds are marked on maps from the earliest days, and the beautiful grandstand still exists today virtually unchanged.

“The annual show was a chance for local producers and craftsmen to display their produce and wares, gain recognition for their quality and advertise to future consumers and business partners.

“A booklet from the third annual exhibition held in 1883 lists the following exhibit divisions: Flowers and Plants; Works of Art; Fruits, Vegetables & Produce; Local Industry (ie blacksmiths, saddlers, bakers, bootmakers, buggy makers, cabinet makers, soap makers); Minerals, Mining, Machinery & Tools; Cattle; Horses; Dogs (sporting & non-sporting); and Poultry.

“Winners were awarded medallions or a ribbon, as well as prize money.

“The exhibition also included a formal dinner and a ball.

“The Show would also have provided a welcome entertainment, and social and business networking opportunity, especially for the families who would travel in from surrounding properties.”

The 2024 Charters Towers Show will run from the 28th to the 30th of July with locals and tourists to expect rides, equestrian events, food, entertainment, and more.