One of the challenges for country shows in the 21st century will be to attract younger people to participate and act as volunteers in the running of the event.
On the face of it, Henty ran a successful show deserving of its proud heritage. An enthusiastic Show Society president Anthony Male, a dedicated secretary Lorri Roden and small band of workers staged the 104th Henty Show on Saturday.
But the facts remain: Henty Show is facing a serious dilemma of aging committee members, retiring show stewards and a very small committee.
A large effort to staff the show was required from local volunteers including the Rotary Club of Henty, the CWA, Culcairn SES, Henty Fire brigade as well as Walbundrie Show Society volunteers.
“As president I believe its time for people of Henty and district to ask if they would really like to see the show continue,” Mr Male said.
Despite a proud history and Henty perceived as a town of volunteers, Mr Male pointed out, “young people are moving away from rural communities and it’s time we have a hard look at our volunteer base.
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