It was an all-animal affair at the 2017 Wodonga Show, with organisers putting forward more wildlife attractions than ever to cater to changing demand from revellers.
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More than 3000 people came through the gates on Saturday with large crowds drawn to Chris Humfrey’s Wild Action show.
It was the zoologist’s second year at Wodonga, but he returned with a bigger profile after Animal Instinct premiered on Foxtel earlier this month.
For 13-year-old Josh Morgan of Baranduda, having the chance to get up close and personal with Humfrey’s black-headed python was a highlight of the day.
“I’ve liked snakes ever since I could remember; they are intelligent creatures,” he said.
“If I were to get any snake in the world, it would be an eyelash pit viper – it has the accuracy to catch a hummingbird by its wing.
“It can’t kill humans but they are very beautiful snakes.”
It was an exciting show for the entire Morgan family – mum Kylie won three categories including “ugliest chicken” in the backyard category of the poultry competition.
“Our chook Sooty is just so adorably ugly, she is the sister of the winner of the fluffiest chicken,” she said.
“We were excited to see Kris Humfrey here, we are at the moment planning a visit to the zoo.”
The staple attractions of rides, showbags, model trains, Hay Ho Animal Nursery and the Yackandandah Vintage Engine Club were joined this year by more modern entertainment including kids’ laser tag.
Wodonga dad Michael Rose said his children Abagale, 10, and Jordan, 10, were drawn straight to the bubble soccer, also new this year.
“It’s good to have something hands-on like that,” he said.
“I’d definitely come back next year, it was a well-organised show.”
Wodonga Show Society president Len Hogan said the committee aimed to bring in new attractions each year to keep crowds coming.
“We had a photography competition for the first time in about six years and we haven’t had a poultry show for three years, with 90 birds in this year,” he said.
“Entertainment expectations have changed.
“All-in-all it was successful, but as always, you never get enough people through the gates.
“We will have something different again next year … the best way to support us is to come along.”
