Hay Show

The Hay Show Society appears to have begun as the Hay Prize Show Pastoral Association in late 1866 or early 1867. Prolonged floods delayed the first show until August 1868, when a fine display of sheep was staged in a paddock near the town school. Notably, George Peppin won a prize and became president in 1869. The showground, first set aside as 15 acres in 1890, expanded to 70 acres by 1939 and was dedicated as a reserve for showground, racecourse and recreation. During World War II it served as a POW camp and is now administered by trustees. While the Hay district is renowned for stud Merino sheep, the annual show emphasises wool, encouraging improvement in ordinary flocks. Hay is also notable for having had two women presidents, Mrs Noreen Smith and Mrs Diane Ronald.