Finley Show

The Finley Agricultural and Pastoral Association was formed in 1912, with its first show held in September 1913, hailed locally as a “red-letter day.” Driving its formation was John Thomas Close, a blacksmith who arrived in 1893 aged 23; he served as first president for 11 consecutive years. Early shows took place on the recreation reserve, but by the 1950s a larger site was needed. The present showgrounds were then proclaimed under Lands Department trusteeship, with volunteers clearing land, planting trees and erecting buildings. President Alex Mickle led a successful share-farming venture that raised £4,000 in three years. The first show on the new grounds was held in 1962, and his contribution was later honoured with a pavilion bearing his name in 1971.