BELLINGEN, NSW - The Bellinger River Agricultural Society is excited to announce that preparations are well underway for the 2025 Bellingen Show, scheduled for May 24-25 at the Bellingen Showground. This year’s event promises to build on the success of previous Shows, offering something for everyone in our vibrant community.
EJ Mantova Art Prize Returns to the Heart of Town
Following last year’s successful format, the prestigious EJ Mantova Art Prize exhibition will again be hosted at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio. This month-long showcase, running from early May through Show weekend, honors Ernest John Mantova, recognized as Bellingen’s first professional artist. Mantova managers, Clare Danby and Reanne Brewin, are delighted with the number of entries this year.
Official Opening: 4 pm on Saturday, April 26th at the Bellingen Gallery and Framing Studio. Light refreshments will be provided at this celebration of local creative talent.
Thanks go to all the sponsors for this event, including Affirmations Publishing House, the C.ex Group and Bellingen Shire Council.
Pavilion Entries Opening Soon – Start Planning Your Entries!
The heart of any agricultural show is its Pavilion displays, and the Bellingen Show is no exception. With over 350 classes spanning everything from jams and preserves to photography, farm produce, embroidery, and home brewing, there’s a category for every talent and interest.
Entries Open Online: Saturday, May 3 via Showdayonline
Entries Close Online: Midnight, Wednesday, May 21
Exhibit Delivery: 9 am Monday, May 19 until 6 pm Thursday, May 22
Note for Perishables: Already-entered perishable items can be delivered until 9:30 am Friday, May 23
“The online entry system through Showdayonline has streamlined the process for both entrants and our volunteers,” explains Entries Secretary Fenella Briscomb. “It’s easier than ever to participate, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned competitor.” Visit the Show website for more information or call in to the Secretary’s Office at the Showground to speak to one of the Show’s friendly volunteers, any Wednesday from 1 pm to 4 pm.
Don’t forget this year’s special sustainability-themed photography category, “Harmony with Nature,” which showcases the beauty of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, and the return of the popular Scarecrow competition.
Volunteers Needed – Be Part of the Show Family!
The Bellingen Show is powered by community spirit and relies entirely on volunteers to bring this beloved event to life. From setting up displays to welcoming guests, organising events, providing information, and packing up the Show, volunteers are the backbone of this event.
“Volunteering at the Show is about more than just lending a hand—it’s about becoming part of a 144-year tradition and connecting with our community,” says Susan Lumsdaine. “If a community is worth living in, it’s worth giving back to. Whether you can spare a few hours or a full day, we’d love to have you join our team.”
To volunteer, visit the Bellingen Show website and follow the SignUp link to choose your preferred option, or contact Volunteer Manager Susanne Read directly at volunteers@bellingenshow.com.au.
Special Volunteers’ Day Event – Sunday, May 4
Show volunteers (both returning and prospective) are warmly invited to our Volunteers’ Day on Sunday, May 4, at the Luncheon Booth at the Showground from 11.30 am to 2 pm. Food and drinks will be provided. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other volunteers, ask questions, and learn more about how you can contribute to the Show’s success. It’s also our chance to say thank you to our wonderful volunteers who make this community event possible year after year. Please RSVP to volunteers@bellingenshow.com.au
Get Your Tickets and Consider Membership
Tickets for the 2025 Bellingen Show are available online through the Show website. Online purchases are cheaper than buying tickets at the gate.
For the price of a two-day ticket at the gate, you can purchase membership to the Bellinger River Agricultural Society, which includes:
• Unlimited admission across both Show days
• Support for the continuing tradition of the Bellingen Show
• A voucher for a discounted meal at the Luncheon Room
• A free drink at the Bar
• Voting rights at the Society’s Annual General Meeting
• The ability to shape the future of the Show by attending the annual planning meeting
• The satisfaction of helping sustain this vital community event
“Membership is more than just show entry—it’s about investing in a community institution that has brought us together for generations,” notes Society President Susan Lumsdaine. “We’re not just preserving a tradition; we’re evolving it to reflect our changing community while honoring our agricultural heritage.”
The 2025 Bellingen Show will feature all the beloved traditional events, including cattle and horse competitions, woodchopping, poultry displays, and the return of the Artisan Tent, alongside new initiatives like the Agricultural Education Hub and expanded SustainaBellingen Showcase.
Free Shuttle Bus Service
Thanks to the generosity of Busways, you can leave your car at home, or park near one of the pick-up points and ride to the Show for free!
• First and last stops each day at Urunga
• Continuous loops to pick up points around Bellingen
• Check the Bellingen Show website for the full shuttle bus schedule and pickup locations.
Sponsor Recognition
The 2025 Show acknowledges all its sponsors, large and small. “All our sponsors help to make the Show possible,” said Sponsorship Manager, Terry Cleary. “Their support allows us to enhance the Show experience while keeping it accessible to everyone.”
Major sponsors for 2025 are Affirmations Publishing House, Bellingen IGA, Bellingen Shire Council, Bellingen Showground, Busways, C.ex Coffs Harbour, Coopers, Diggers Tavern, Norco AgriSolutions, Now & Zen, Polyaire Coffs Harbour, Warren Weick Real Estate, and Waterfall Way Associates.
For more information about all that is on offer at the Show this year, visit www.bellingenshow.com.au or follow the Bellingen Show on Facebook.
Pavilion fruit & veg Garrick Bellingen