At last count 10,000 people came through the gates at Cessnock Show this year, with organisers estimating record gate takings of nearly $15,000.
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“Both the attendance and gate takings may be records. We were pleasantly shocked to see the estimated figures,” Donna Crossley, the show treasurer, said.
She paid tribute to the standard of events and to Kurri Kurri Speedway, which provided top entertainment at no charge.
“I think it was a combination of popular attractions and the spirit shown by groups like Kurri Kurri Speedway that have probably made this year’s show a record,” Ms Crossley said.
“We believe this was a record gate this year that could reach nearly $15,000, with at least 10,000 people at the show.
“We are still adding up the figures since the show ended at 9pm on Saturday.
“The fact that we had so many top-class events was probably a major reason for such a big attendance.
“Bikers from Freestyle Motocross – with two motorcyclists jumping and performing somersaults in the air – had the crowds roaring and they are also really good when talking to the public afterwards,” Ms Crossley said.
“We also appreciate the public spirit of Kurri Kurri Speedway, which did not take any money for their performance. Their action could be a major reason why the show was so successful this year.”
Other show highlights included a fireworks spectacular put on by Kaboom which lasted more than 10 minutes, the Professor Wallace Puppet Show for children, a dog show and day-long horse competitions.
There was also judging of prize vegetables and a cooking contest.
“The Cessnock Show has really put our town on the map this year,” Ms Crossley said.
