It will be a meeting of the past and present with traditional livestock, art, craft, cooking, gardening and machinery given a new lease of life by today’s entrants.

The contrast between Wingham’s pioneering days and its current setting has been the source of much discovery for Manning Valley Historical Society member (and Wingham Chronicle collaborator) Mieke van Werdt.

Last week’s Chronicle featured photos from the very first Wingham Show in 1885. This week, Mieke has supplied us with pages from the show’s original 1900 program.

“It is fascinating to see what we valued 100 years ago and what we value now,” Mieke said.

“The advertisements, the prizes, the list of members . . . It is all so different. It is like a window back in time.”

The Wingham showground will be packed with displays, stalls, rides and food outlets on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend, with something there for the whole family. Saturday will kick off with ridden and lead horse competitions, plus showjumping and cattle judging. A number of hall exhibits, including art, craft, and cooking, will be open for inspection. Mrs Ruth Rankin will host the official opening of the show at 11.30am. The grand parade will follow at 2.30pm.

Families will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display at 8pm as the festivities continue into the evening. Sunday will see the champion dog show and campdrafting events, with the fun-filled demolition derby set down for 3.30pm in the main arena. Admission for the 2010 Wingham Show is $10 for adults, $5 for pensioners and $5 for children aged 12 to 16 years. All enquiries can be directed to Ann Thorburn at 6557 0734.