BELLINGEN, NSW — The Bellinger River Agricultural Society is proud to announce significant changes to the 2025 Bellingen Show, scheduled for May 24-25 at the Bellingen Showground, making the event more accessible and enjoyable for the entire community
New Time for Official Opening Ceremony
In a break from tradition, the Official Opening of the 2025 Bellingen Show will take place at 9:00am on Saturday morning in the Entertainment Tent. This significant change from the usual afternoon ceremony allows visitors to experience the full spectrum of events throughout the day and signals the start of a weekend packed with activities.
The Opening Ceremony will feature a Welcome to Country and special performance by the Budaabang Bari Aboriginal Dance Group, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our region. A key motivation for this schedule change was to hold the Welcome to Country at a more culturally appropriate time—at the beginning of the weekend event—honoring First Nations protocols and traditions.
“Moving the Official Opening to Saturday morning represents our commitment to evolving the Show while honoring its traditions and showing deeper respect for cultural practices,” explains Show President Susan Lumsdaine. “This new format allows our community to gather together at the start of the day and then enjoy everything the Show has to offer.”
It’s important to note that the Grand Parade and presentation of trophies to champion horse and cattle entrants will remain at the traditional time of 2:30pm on Saturday in the Main Arena.
Free Shuttle Bus Service
Leave your car at home or park near one of the pickup points and enjoy a stress-free journey to the Show! Busways is providing a free shuttle bus service throughout the Show weekend, with first and last stops of each day at Urunga and convenient pickup points at several locations around Bellingen.
This sustainable transportation option reduces traffic congestion around the Showground while making the Show accessible to more community members. The full shuttle bus schedule and pickup locations are available on the Bellingen Show website.
Two Full Days of Entertainment
The Entertainment Tent will host a diverse lineup of performances across both days of the Show:
Saturday: School performances will commence immediately following the Official Opening, showcasing the talents of our local youth. Throughout the day, audiences can enjoy performances from local dance groups, school choirs and musical ensembles.
Sunday: The day will kick off with Kaya Boom’s interactive drumming session, inviting visitors of all ages to experience the joy of rhythm. The entertainment will continue with a showcase of local youth musicians, highlighting the exceptional musical talent in our region.
Free Admission for All School Children!
In an exciting announcement for families, all school children will receive free admission to the 2025 Bellingen Show. While children under 6 have always enjoyed free entry, this year the Bellinger River Agricultural Society has extended this benefit to all children attending infants, primary, or high school.
“Making the Show accessible to all young people in our community is a priority,” says gate manager, Linda Villy. “By offering free admission to all school children, we’re ensuring that every family can experience the joy, education, and community connection that the Show provides without financial barriers.”
This initiative encourages young people to explore agricultural traditions, engage with sustainability concepts, enjoy entertainment, and participate in competitions—all vital aspects of fostering the next generation of Show supporters.
Young Farmer Challenge Moves to Main Arena
The popular Young Farmer Challenge is getting a promotion in 2025, moving to the Main Arena on Sunday. This high-energy competition tests the practical skills and teamwork of participants aged 18-35 with a series of agricultural and rural tasks.
Teams of four will compete for the impressive $400 first prize, but spots are limited, so interested participants should act quickly. Entry forms are available on the Bellingen Show website or can be picked up at Norco Bellingen.
“The Young Farmer Challenge showcases the skills needed in rural life in a fun, competitive format,” says event manager Terry Wilkins. “Moving it to the Main Arena gives this exciting competition the visibility it deserves and allows more spectators to enjoy the action.” The Young Farmer Challenge is sponsored by Coffs Harbour Toyota.
Entries Hub Opening May 19th
For those who prefer to submit Pavilion entries in person, the Entries Hub at the Bellingen Showground will open from 9am Monday, May 19th and will accept entries until 6pm Thursday, May 22nd. Entry forms can be downloaded from the Show website.
This includes the popular Scarecrow Competition, with scarecrows to be displayed throughout the Showground during the Show weekend. Scarecrows should stand no taller than 170cm and come attached to a sturdy stake for secure display.
If you have already submitted your Pavilion entries via ShowdayOnline, bring your exhibits and entry cards to the Entries Hub during the same period. Remember that Pavilion judging takes place Friday morning, so all exhibits must be delivered by Thursday evening, with the exception of perishable items (which must be pre-entered but can be delivered until 9:30am on Friday, May 23rd).
Volunteers – The Heart of Our Show
The Bellingen Show thrives thanks to the dedication of community volunteers. Whether you can spare a few hours or a full day, there are many ways to contribute—from setting up displays to welcoming guests or assisting with events.
Visit the Bellingen Show website (www.bellingenshow.com.au) and follow the SignUp link to choose your preferred volunteer option or contact our Volunteer Manager Susanne Read at volunteers@bellingenshow.com.au. All volunteers receive free entry to the Show and become part of a tradition that has united our community for generations.
Show Membership – Supporting a Community Institution
For the price of a two-day ticket at the gate, you can purchase membership to the Bellinger River Agricultural Society. Benefits include unlimited entry across both Show days, a discounted meal and a free drink at the Show, a chance to shape the future of the Show at the annual planning meeting, voting rights at the Society’s Annual General Meeting, and the satisfaction of helping sustain this vital community event.
“Membership represents an investment in a community institution that has brought us together for 144 years,” notes Society President Susan Lumsdaine. “Every membership helps ensure the Show continues to evolve and thrive for future generations.”
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 the 2025 Bellingen Show, visit www.bellingenshow.com.au or follow the Bellingen Show on Facebook.
Contact Information:
Bellinger River Agricultural Society
Email: secretary@bellingenshow.com.au
Phone: 0498 483 915
Website: www.bellingenshow.com.au
2023 Entertainment Tent Chrysalis
2023 YFC1