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Blooms, prizes & persistent struggles in obtaining permission!

Last week we enjoyed the Agricultural Shows that were held in the district from 1870s through to 1898 when the show scene was wrapped up.

Before we proceed, it is worth mentioning the fervour that regular ploughing competitions brought to Myrniong from the late 1800s and into the next century.

In the midst of 1886, Thomas McCluskey generously offered his paddocks as a venue for the annual ploughing competition hosted by the Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, and Pentland Hills Agricultural Society. This event drew seventeen skilled competitors who tackled the dry, slightly uneven terrain, pitting the abilities of seasoned veterans against one another.

The catering for this gathering was expertly handled by Mrs Grace Purcell, proprietor of the Plough Hotel, and it goes without saying that her work was marked by its customary thoroughness. Unfortunately, Mrs. Purcell encountered a challenge in supplying “sufficient refreshments” due to the demanding requirements for her special license from the authorities. It was pondered whether, in such exceptional circumstances, the local magistrates might consider granting a special license to ensure the success of such important events.

If Mrs Purcell wasn’t eagerly sourcing special licenses for ploughing matches, she was busy pushing her piano across Main Street to the Mechanics Hall for the Mount Blackwood Catholic School annual entertainment concert.

Now let me dish up this week’s story:

More than 20 years after the demise of the Agriculture Shows, the first Myrniong Flower Show conducted by Myrniong Horticultural Society was held in November 1922 and thereafter became an annual event with over 700 entries the following year.

By 1928, the show became a source of pride for the people of "The Hills" district. The Spring Show was a tremendous success from a social standpoint and offered various opportunities for the region.

The 1930 Show generated enthusiasm and excitement and resulted in a successful and well-attended event under the catchphrase "Come Back to Myrniong!" This year, Mr. Palmer exhibited various growth stages of tobacco plants, and draughtsmen displayed large mechanical drawings of great "study and skill". There were a total of 903 entries for this year's show. Despite challenging economic times, the Shire President acknowledged the difficulties faced by Australians but commended the Society for its common sense and enthusiasm, resulting in a show that was undoubtedly the best. He took pride in the fact that the present generation was upholding the traditions of the past.

It's important to note that the Bacchus Marsh, Ballan & Pentland Hills Agricultural Show should not be confused with the Myrniong Flower Show, which held its 6th annual event in October 1927. This event introduced a new category eligible for prizes: the Best Worked Unbleached Apron. The prize for this category was generously donated by Mrs. Wyness, a visitor from Sydney, who was impressed by the "good work of the Society".

The 1952 Myrniong Flower Show was held amidst gale-force winds with rain dampening attendance numbers. The rivalry was reported as being keen in several sections, including flowers and cuisine “where old enthusiasts fought out their battles again with the same dignified pride and optimism as displayed long ago when the heart was young and the world was wide”. As a result of dwindling entries and interest, the show fizzled out of existence.


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