The show has run continuously since 1888, pausing only for World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic, a milestone organisers say reflects the enduring pull of the event for the district.
This year, organisers are making a concerted push to grow entries in the show's livestock sections, with strong sponsor backing behind both the cattle and prime lamb competitions.
The Goulburn Murray Prime Lamb Carcass Competition has landed a new major sponsor in the Victorian Poll Dorset Association, which is offering prizes for the winning pen if sired by a Poll Dorset ram, alongside a championship sash for the overall champion.
In the All Breeds Dairy Cattle Show, long-time show supporter Rex James Stockfeeds Nathalia returns as major sponsor, with prizes for Best Udder, Senior Champion and Supreme Champion, plus free entry into handler classes, open to competitors as young as five.
Organisers are hoping the strong prize pool and the show's compact, one-day format will draw both new and returning competitors into the ring.
This year's theme, ‘Intergalactic’, will run through nearly every section of the schedule, from cake decorating and floral art to Lego, needlework and craft.
A dedicated Spaceship Competition invites entrants of all ages to turn a cardboard box into a spacecraft, while the Show Quest will crown a best intergalactic-themed outfit.
Local shops, schools and community groups are also being encouraged to run space-themed window and window displays in the lead-up, with displays due up by Monday, September 28, ahead of judging early that week.
To mark the milestone, a display of show memorabilia will be set up in the multi-purpose rooms, with contributions from the community welcome.
General pavilion, cookery, produce, craft and photography entries close Wednesday, September 30, with exhibits due at the showgrounds by 11.30am the following Friday.
Prime lamb entries close with the secretary on Friday, October 2, with lambs weighed by 9.30am on show day and "on the hook" judging held at Ryan's Abattoirs the following Monday.
Gates open to the public at 9am on show day, with the official opening at 11am.
The show is proudly supported by platinum sponsors Community Bank Nathalia (Bendigo Bank), Ryan Group, Lawless Lasers and Farm Pride.
Full details and entry forms are available at nathaliashow.com
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