The smell of sizzling sausages, the sounds of a bustling crowd, and the unmistakable spirit of country hospitality. That was all on display this week, as the Armidale Show Society dished up at the Sydney Royal Easter Show’s Big Bush BBQ.
As part of a community-driven initiative by the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS), the Big Bush BBQ gives regional show societies a platform to raise funds and share their story with thousands of city showgoers. And this year, the Armidale team was front and centre, flipping sausages and serving up smiles — all in support of their beloved local show.
“Proceeds go directly to the Armidale Show Society,” Briony Looker, a key figure in the society, said.
“It’s such a great initiative from the RAS. Each day, a different show society takes over the BBQ, and everything we make comes back to support our local show and our community.”
The funds couldn’t come at a better time. With Armidale Show Society preparing to celebrate its 150th show next year, every sausage sandwich sold helps lay the groundwork for what promises to be a historic event.
“We’re just trying to fundraise where we can,” Looker said.
“It’s going to be quite a celebration. We’re one of the longest running volunteer-run community groups in the New England, and we’re proud of that.”
Looker has been a member of the society for over a decade and describes herself a woman of “many hats” within the organisation—handling everything from cattle coordination to bar licensing.
“I think I’m up to twelve or thirteen years now, so yeah been around for a little while,” she said.
“I’m from Glen Innes originally.”
The Armidale Show Society is made up of around 150 active members and continues to grow, especially with younger generations stepping up.
“We’ve got a strong, active membership and we’re really trying to keep the next generation engaged and excited,” she said.
Looker was also joined by students from PLC Armidale who have been helping out across the show circuit this year.
One of those students, Imogen Scanlon, was hands-on both in the cattle pavilion and behind the BBQ.
“We’re just making sausages today,” she said. “It’s been a great experience—and it all goes to a good cause.”
In addition to serving at the BBQ, the Armidale crew also celebrated various prizes in the cattle competitions and the success of their charity steer, which sold for an impressive $18,000 at auction.
Proceeds from the sale will go to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a cause close to the team’s heart.
As the Sydney show continues, the team from Armidale is proud to fly the flag for their region—and serve up a little taste of the New England in every sandwich.
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