SBS Bank Southland on Show day tradition to change

13 October 2010

MEDIA RELEASE

SBS Bank Southland on Show day tradition to change

It’s a sign of the times – gone are the statutory holidays when everything “shuts down” for the day and it has certainly been some years since the city and schools closed so everyone could attend the Southland A & P Show on a Friday.

Accordingly, organisers are changing to suit the times for SBS Bank Southland on Show, which is scheduled for Saturday 5 March 2011.

Show co-ordinator Juanita Thornton said the format of a Friday-Saturday show was proving to be a challenge for businesses, exhibitors and competitors involved with the event, as well as the public wanting to attend and enjoy all the activities.

“The Friday was popular in years past, but, with a change in tradition, we’ve learned that it’s not easy to get the public along any more and businesses involved in the trade space are finding it more of an issue from a staffing point of view, as they still have their day-to-day businesses to run.

“On review, it’s become apparent that the Fridays really weren’t working anymore so it has been decided to officially make ‘People’s Day’ on Saturday 5 March for the 2011 event. This will allow the public to have one full day to see all the sheep, beef, dairy and equestrian classes, along with specialty classes, trade exhibitors and family entertainment.”

Mrs Thornton said due to the size of the equestrian programme they would continue to run a two-day format through until Sunday 6 March. There would be an entry fee on the Saturday but any public wanting to return to take in the equestrian-only action on day two would gain free entry.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have SBS Bank back on board as the major naming sponsor for 2011. They have been extremely supportive and, with our organisations both being so community orientated, it is a perfect alliance.

“Such support is invaluable in helping to ensure our iconic annual event is a success.”

SBS Bank general manager agribusiness Malcolm Little said the Southland A & P Show and SBS Bank were both long-standing local organisations that had a tradition of community support and rallying town and country together.

“SBS Bank has been supporting our communities since 1869 and there is nothing more community-driven than a great family day out at the local A & P Show,” Mr Little said.

“We know the necessary revamps to SBS Bank Southland on Show for 2011 will prove beneficial for participants and attendees alike and our team will certainly be there doing our bit to make sure everyone is having a great time.”

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