The Kiama Show Society Management Committee has taken the decision to cancel the 172nd Kiama Show, scheduled for 24-25 January, due to the ongoing bushfire situation.

“The Committee has considered long and hard all the demands that weigh heavily on our volunteers, competitors, judges, stewards, entertainers, our attendees and the rural community at this time,” says the Show Society President Neil McLaren.

“This, combined with the effects of the ongoing drought, make the decision to cancel the most appropriate action. This decision is for the safety and well-being of all attendees and the welfare of the livestock.

“Our Kiama community and our neighbouring families of the South Coast and Tablelands show societies are feeling the shared stress, anxiety and pain of all of the community especially our rural landholders and farmers. We extend our condolences and sympathies to all those affected by the fires.

“At present it is of greater priority for all of us to keep families, livestock and property safe. We are making every endeavour to support those in need.

“We look forward to better times and continuing our Kiama Show tradition of a great, annual community event in 2021.”

It is only the second time in its long and proud history that a Kiama Show has been canceled.