Horse Flu Hits Kiama Show Bid For Record
Illawarra Mercury
Monday January 28, 2008
HOPES for a record crowd at the 160th Kiama Show were thwarted by circumstances beyond the organisers' control at the weekend.
Despite a bumper program of entertainment, numbers attending the historic, two-day event were down on previous years, affected by cancellation of the horse events due to the equine flu.The absence of a grandstand also proved a deterrent to showgoers seeking an undercover view of events in the main arena.The Kiama Showground grandstand had has been out of action for several years after it was condemned by Kiama Municipal Council.After a strenuous campaign by the council to attract government funding, work will start next Monday on a $5.4 million upgrade that will involve replacement of the grandstand and a major overhaul of the adjoining 41-year-old pavilion to include theatre seating for 340 people.The works program has been designed to be completed in time for the 161st Kiama Show.Kiama Show Society life member Sandy Rendel said attractions such as a display of helicopters from HMAS Albatross proved a hit with the crowds.Kristen Kalkman, 23, was announced Miss Kiama Showgirl 2008, with Loretta Marlan, 19, the runner-up.Ms Kalkman will progress to the zone judging at Bulli on February 23.
© 2008 Illawarra Mercury
