Official Opening of the Kenilworth Centenary Show and Rodeo

Member for Nicklin, Mr Hunt; Federal Member for Fairfax, Mr O’Brien; Mayor, Councillor Jamieson and Councillors; former Speaker of the Queensland Parliament, Peter Wellington; Committee members; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; boys and girls. 

I at once also acknowledge the traditional owners and First Nations peoples of lands around Kenilworth, and extend respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.  

It is an absolute delight to join you for the Kenilworth Centenary Show and Rodeo – congratulations on what is indeed the ‘Show of the Century’.

That very first Kenilworth Show in 1919 sparked what would become a century-old tradition of bringing together the community.

It was a springtime carnival and a showcase of local livestock, arts and crafts and the very best local produce.

Indeed, as the Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser reported at the time, the cooking section “outshone the whole show”, with tantalising samples of breads, cakes, jams, jellies and pickles piled high like the Blackall Ranges.

How wonderfully this region’s produce continues to shine, particularly through its proud dairy traditions! Although, having lived through a time of wartime privation, I’m not sure what those first judges would make of Kenilworth’s now famous one-kilogram doughnuts, but I’d like to try one!

We can assume that inaugural show was a success as the following year, intrepid motorists from surrounding towns converged on Kenilworth for the Show. And we must remember that motor cars one hundred years ago were the exception rather than the norm – it must have been quite the spectacle!

This year, the Sunshine Coast Antique Car Club has re-created that motorcade with cars from the era – what wonderful dedication to preserving the rich heritage of this special region!

As to what the Kenilworth Show and Rodeo may look like one hundred years from now in 2119… well, I encourage you to inspect the Lego constructions designed on just that theme.

It really is wonderful to see this vibrantly uplifting community coming together for today’s centenary show. 

Community is always important but, as the recent bushfires remind us, it is often in times of trouble that we find ourselves reminded of the value of strong neighbours and towns.

Today, however, is a celebration! I thank everyone involved, particularly the Committee, in organising this very special occasion, at these delightful grounds importantly still community owned and operated.

Finally, I thank all show-goers here today. I know you will enjoy the many delights on offer, from the bucking broncos to the eye-pleasing exhibits of the pavilion program.

It is my great pleasure to now declare officially open the Kenilworth Centenary Show and Rodeo. Thank you.