Cooma Show

Ploughing matches in the Monaro district during the 1860s led to the formation of an agricultural association, with the first show held in 1875 at the Police Paddock. Early events combined competition with community entertainment. In 1883, local organisations amalgamated to form the Cooma Pastoral and Agricultural Association. The showground later moved to its present site after the original land was exchanged for use as a railway station. The show has long reflected the district’s strong horse tradition, with notable horses and riders associated with Cooma, highlighting its place in the region’s rural heritage.