The George Agricultural Show, which took place from 24 – 26 August 2023 in George, was a celebration of agriculture, community, and entertainment.
The event featured a diverse and high-quality program, comprising world-class competitions, a wide range of attractions, and captivating performances.
The primary objective of the show was to promote agriculture and to serve the local community of George. However, the George Agricultural Show isn’t confined to merely farming; it represents a celebration of community spirit and cultural diversity.
A standout highlight of this year’s show was the much-anticipated Tent Pegging World Cup. Skilled equestrians from across the globe gathered to showcase their expertise in this exhilarating sport. The Tent Pegging World Cup not only significantly boosted George’s sports tourism sector, but also generated a substantial economic impact in the area.
The event prominently featured three prestigious National Dairy Championships – focusing on the Jersey, Holstein Friesian, and Ayrshire breeds. These championships provided breeders and enthusiasts a platform to exhibit their finest dairy cattle. Remarkably, this was the first instance in 10 years when all three SA Dairy Championships were held at the same time. Additionally, a successful Jersey Genetics Auction also took place.
Visitors commended the impressive displays of poultry, sheep, goats, and livestock. Notably, Boerbokke (a specific breed of goat) made their debut at the show, drawing considerable attention. The Youth Show and Young Auctioneer Competition weren’t just sources of entertainment; they also served to inspire the upcoming generation of agricultural leaders.
The event showcased industrial exhibits, with over 140 stalls offering a diverse array of products and services. The sports festival, featuring activities such as Boxing, Kick Boxing, Tug of War, Padel Tennis, and Tent Pegging, catered to sports enthusiasts. The entertainment lineup included performances by well-known artists, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The George Agricultural Show is affiliated with Agri Expo, a key partner and sponsor of the event, alongside George Municipality, George Tourism, the Department of Agriculture and numerous others. Their unwavering support of the sponsors reflects their commitment to advancing agriculture and promoting community connections within the region.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Corne Botha, President of the George Agricultural Show, expressed, “It was a significant show, and our Executive Committee takes immense pride in the 2023 edition we’ve organised.”