Step back in time with Elva Emery, whose vivid memories of the Kiama Show paint a picture of a bygone era. Her reflections, originally recorded for Kiama on Show, a captivating collection of stories by Karen Beasley celebrating the show's rich history, bring to life the excitement and community spirit that once defined this iconic event.

Elva's son, Mark Emery, now The Bugle's historian, continues his family's legacy by preserving and sharing these cherished tales. Though Elva may no longer be with us, her words echo with the pride and joy she felt in being part of this treasured tradition

Elva Emery with her mother and son David at KIama Show 75 plus years ago

What Has Changed?

As you experience the Kiama Show this weekend, take a moment to reflect:

• Have the traditions that Elva describes evolved or disappeared?
• How has technology impacted the show experience?
• What aspects of the show still capture that same spirit of community that Elva cherished?

Share Your Story

The Bugle invites you to share your own reflections on the Kiama Show. 

• What do you cherish most about the show today? 
• What traditions do you hope will endure?

Let's keep the spirit of the Kiama Show alive by sharing our stories and ensuring this beloved tradition continues to thrive for generations to come.

In Elva's words.....

I remember the weeks leading up to the show vividly. In the 1930s, preparation wasn’t just a task, it was a way of life. My father, like so many others, poured his heart into it. Extra hands were brought in to help, and we worked hard to get everything just right. Chaff had to be made and bagged, and the cattle needed feeding and grooming. Their coats were brushed until they shone, their tails were plaited, and even their horns were polished. Every small effort was for the same goal, to make them ready for the show.

On Thursday, the cattle were driven by horse from our farm at Crooked River to Gerringong, where they were loaded onto train cattle trucks for the bumpy trip to Kiama. It wasn’t easy on them, but there were paddocks in South Kiama we could rent, and they’d spend the night there before the big day.

It wasnt unusal for there to be 40 or more cows in each cow class

I remember packing the essentials, chaff, water, and everything we needed to milk the cows that evening. The next morning, we didn’t milk them, as the judging took place first. I can still picture the cows walking to the showground, heads held high, ready for their moment. After the parade in the afternoon, we took them back to the station, loaded them up, and returned home late that night.

When we finally got home, the poor cows were bursting with milk. It would squirt everywhere as we milked them. We were exhausted, but we all did our part, knowing how much the show meant to us. It was a day we’d look forward to all year, no matter how hard it was.

Of course, there were challenges. The bulls needed rings in their noses to keep them in line, but they were still difficult to manage. And yet, it was worth it to see our cattle in the parade and to feel that sense of pride in what we’d achieved.

Bulls could be very challenging to handle and they are no longer an exhibit at shows in the 21st century.

For us girls, the show wasn’t just about the animals. The Kewpie dolls from the sideshow stalls were a real treat. They weren’t expensive, but to us, they were treasures. And then there was the ball, held in the old pavilion, a grand event for the whole district.

Little girls love of Kewpie Dolls hasnt changed in 100 years

My father was on the agricultural show committee and went to meetings every Friday night. My mother, meanwhile, was on the supper committee, helping to prepare the food for the ball. As an only child, I tagged along wherever they went. Babysitters weren’t a thing back then, so I’d sit quietly, watching the young women in their beautiful dresses and dream of the day I’d be old enough to join them.

The show was about more than ribbons and prizes. It was a chance to come together as a community, to celebrate our work, and to enjoy the simple joys of life. On the first day, we’d wear our second-best dresses, saving the best for day two. I entered my embroidery, sewing, and flowers in the competitions, and now my grandchildren continue that tradition.

The show was a chance for the ladies to show off their finest fashions. 2nd best on the first day and best dress on the 2nd day.

Looking back, the Kiama Show was more than an event, it was a heartbeat in our community, a shared moment that brought us all closer. Those were good days, filled with hard work and pride, and they remain among my fondest memories.

A Glimpse into the Past

Elva's account offers a fascinating glimpse into a time when the Kiama Show was the heart and soul of the community. The meticulous preparations, the anticipation of the big day, and the shared sense of accomplishment paint a vivid picture of a bygone era.

One thing that has changed is the side show events. No longer do we have "Fat Ladies" or "Abdul the Wizard"

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Abdullah was certainly very talented. He could make mango trees grow while you watch, make birds appear from nowhere and my favourite he could make boys lay eggs