Before ‘clicks’, ‘likes’ and ‘followers’, there was more to the local agricultural show than trade ally, amusement rides and food vans. With European arrival, many English traditions travelled with the people. Even though the first show of livestock, samples of wool, implements of husbandry, and agricultural and horticultural produce held on March 3, 1842 in the Melbourne Cattle Market (intersection of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets) was a failure, by 1848, settler enthusiasm had increased and began the tradition of prestige for entrants to the competitions. 

These days, competition participation numbers are down, while exhibit entry