Community & Business
10 March, 2026
The heart of Millmerran on show
The 89th Millmerran Show was held over the weekend bringing together people of all ages and talents in a celebration of community, connection and country spirit.
Early estimates indicate that more than 3500 people attended the showgrounds across the two days.
Matt Clark, President of the Millmerran Show Society, expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the success of the Show.
“Events like the Millmerran Show don’t happen by chance, they are built on months of planning, early mornings, late nights, and the unwavering dedication of volunteers, committee members, sponsors, exhibitors, competitors, entertainers, judges, stallholders and supporters,” he said.
“To our volunteers and committee members, your tireless work behind the scenes is the backbone of the Show.
“Your commitment to our community and to continuing this proud tradition does not go unnoticed.
“To our exhibitors and competitors, thank you for sharing your hard work, talents, livestock, produce, crafts and skills,” he said.
“You are the heart of the Show ring and the pavilion.
“To every person who came through the gates, thank you for showing up, supporting local, and being part of what makes this event so special.”
Toowoomba Region Mayor Geoff McDonald had the honour of opening the Show at the official ceremony on Saturday evening.
“Teamwork makes the dream work, and Shows are often built on the backs of families all coming together from all corners of the
Shire...and it takes a 12 month effort to do that,” Mayor McDonald said.
He made mention of Show Society Patron, Neville Fitzgerald, who has been in the role for nearly 40 years, and Charlie Batzloff, who continues to steward the fruit and vegetables section even as he approaches 90 years of age.
A special guest at the official ceremony was Aleacea Nixon, the current Queensland Country Life Showgirl from Roma.
Life memberships were bestowed upon Cheryl King, Irene Missen and Leonard Thompson for their dedication to the Show movement.
Mr Fitzgerald presented each of them with a badge made by Bronte Harris of Yondale Designs.
Cheryl said she was chuffed by the surprise announcement and felt honoured to be presented with life membership.
For 60 years she has volunteered her time and talents in the horticulture section as a steward.
Irene came on board a year after Cheryl, also volunteering her efforts in the horticulture section.
Leonard has been involved in the photography section for many years, and although he was unable to be there to personally receive his life membership, his efforts were recognised and appreciated.
The Millmerran Show is built on the quiet, steady efforts of volunteers that often go unseen, like the dedication of Berry Dieckmann who’s been opening rodeo gates at the Show for 35 years, but it’s those simple acts of generosity that make the biggest impact and deliver such a spectacular Show.
