With crowd numbers up 10 per cent from last year, CEO Paul Guerra says it's clear a return to the show's agricultural roots has resonated with families in 2018.

"It's always difficult to comment on the past, but we were quite deliberate in our decision to bring more animals this year," he said.

More farm animals, including an opportunity to have a selfie with a cow, and big name acts like singer Jimmy Barnes and magician Cosentino also added to the experience, the show boss added.

There was also a concerted effort to attract Indian and Chinese families via social media, in a move that paid dividends.

The upturn in crowd is bucking a trend for agricultural shows across Australia, where numbers have been dwindling in recent years.

Mr Guerra said Melbourne's sunny weather and lower ticket prices helped the 11-day event's appeal.

Before the show wraps up on Tuesday, there's expected to be a new record set for an old-time favourite. More than 14,500 of the famous Country Women's Association scones will be sold - the most at the Royal Melbourne Show.

Australian Associated Press