BEST OF ARDLETHAN ON DISPLAY AT THE 2026 SHOW
Tuesday, 22 September 2026
The roar of tractors, the buzz of a big crowd and plenty of country spirit were all on show in Ardlethan on Saturday, as the 2026 Ardlethan Show brought the community together for a huge day of entertainment, competition and celebration.
After an 11-year absence, the much-loved Tractor Pull made its highly anticipated return to the Ardlethan Show, joining a packed program that included the Outback Stockman’s Show, Quick Shear, Show and Shine, Bushmen’s Relay and Team Yarding.
Beautiful spring weather helped draw a strong crowd, with families, farmers, competitors, volunteers and visitors coming together to celebrate the best of Ardlethan and the surrounding region.
Ms Cooke attended the show and said events such as Ardlethan’s annual show played an important role in bringing regional communities together.
“Ag shows bring together communities, families, farmers, volunteers and businesses to celebrate the people who make our regions strong,” Ms Cooke said.
“Shows such as Ardlethan showcase the very best of country life, highlighting the traditions and community spirit that define the region.
“Ardlethan Show is an opportunity to celebrate the industries and heritage that have shaped the area for generations, while inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
The program offered plenty for younger visitors, with activities and entertainment ensuring the show had something for the whole family.
Ms Cooke congratulated Ardlethan Show Society President Simone Williams and her committee on delivering a successful event.
“The volunteers who organise and run these events deserve enormous recognition.
“Their dedication ensures these events continue to thrive and remain an important part of regional life for future generations.”
Ardlethan Show Society President Simone Williams said the committee was thrilled with the turnout and response to this year’s event.
“It was a great day. It was huge and we had beautiful weather,” Ms Williams said.
The committee introduced several new elements to this year’s show, with Ms Williams saying the changes had been well received.
“We tried a few new things this year, which worked really well, and some new people have joined the committee, which is something that is never easy to do,” she said.
The strong turnout was also welcomed by local organisations, with the Ardlethan Lions Club reporting increased numbers for its lunch catering.
Ms Williams said it was also special to welcome Mayor David McCann and his wife, along with Ms Cooke, to the event.
With the 2026 show now wrapped up, the committee has already begun looking at ways to build on this year’s success.
“We had a debrief on Sunday and have worked out where we can make improvements and changes for next year,” Ms Williams said.
“The community feedback has been great. We’re really happy.
The success of the 2026 Ardlethan Show highlights the strength of the local community and the dedication of the volunteers, organisations and sponsors who work behind the scenes to keep the much-loved annual event going.
