Up to 30,000 are expected to descend on Bonniconlon, outside Ballina, this Bank Holiday Monday for one of the biggest and most successful agricultural shows in the country.
The story of the Bonniconlon Agricultural Show and Gymkhana, which is this year marking its 65th anniversary, is one of enduring community spirit, tireless hard work and unending committment, which has seen the small, rural village firmly establish itself as the host of this Goliath celebration of all things agricultural and rural.
Dara Calleary TD will be in Bonniconlon on Monday at 12 noon to perform the official opening.
The show boasts an impressive prize fund of €45,000.
On the day there will be competitions for horses, ponies, donkeys, cattle, sheep, goats, a dog show, horticulture, farm produce, poultry, flowers, arts and craft, photography, cookery and a variety of junior classes.
The gymkhana is always a hugely popular attraction at the show. Sheaf tossing, sheep dog trials, music and entertainment, a stunt bike show, children’s party, a show dance and the Rose of Bonniconlon ‘Queen of the Show’ competition are just some of the other attractions available.
There is a record number of trade stands at this year’s show and anyone interested in trading at the show can contact Gerry Weeney on (086 ) 8076812 or John O’Hara on (087 ) 2942949.
Special guest Ryan Dior, who is a leading light in the television industry, having written for top shows such as Coronation Street and Heartbeat, acted and directed for many popular soaps, and more recently, worked with comedian Pat Shortt, will also be at the show to highlight his Ryan Dior Suicide Awareness Campaign.
For more information on the Bonniconlon Agricultural Show, taking place on Bank Holiday Monday, August 4, visit www.bonniconlonshow.ie
