The 80th anniversary of the Jerrawa ‘Little Royal’ Show epitomises what it means to live in a regional country town. Coinciding with the Sydney Royal Show, Jerrawa has a heartwarming history.
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About 80 years ago, resident Arthur Heat conceived the collection of events at the local showgrounds for younger children in the district. It was a form of entertainment for children who grew up in the country and wanted something to do. As the years ticked on, the activities turned into a more organised and larger show, with the inclusion of food, art, showings and races.
On Monday, April 2, beneath the beating sun, the community gathered to support the show. There were no airs or graces, just a love for the people and their progress.
Fold-out chairs were scattered around the grounds as attendees, young and old, caught up and shared news. Descendants of the founding Heat family could be found at the barbecue, behind the administrative desk and preparing lunch for the day: a legacy as strong as it was when it began.
Tree-changers, city folk, those who had worked all their lives behind a desk, those craving the outdoors: all were looking for a genuine connection, something that comes readily to those in regional pockets, where a simple ‘how are you?’ holds great weight.
Jerrawa became that place, a place to congregate as a community, a place to remind the world that the best show doesn’t have to have the biggest numbers or sprawling rides. The best show has the biggest heart.
Speaking of having heart…
Some might say that Labor has been preparing its take-back of the Goulburn seat, which includes the Upper Lachlan Shire, since its loss three years ago.
Dr Ursula Stephens is back for round two against the incumbent Liberal member for Goulburn, Pru Goward.
It felt like deja vu when Dr Stephens won the pre-selection on Saturday, defeating Yass nominee Anna Ritson 33 votes to 14.
To many across the district, the former Senator is a familiar face realising ambitions in the community sector.
It is easy to mistake critique for criticism when the stakes are high, such as they are at state elections, so we hope both candidates – and any others yet to run – understand that winning a seat is more than gaining the trust of those who live in the big centres of population, but extends to all, including those in smaller districts.
