Youth input ensures show remains fresh
YOUTH involvement is strong in the Clifton Show Society.
Going against the trend of most agricultural shows nationwide, Clifton Show Society president, 24-year-old Hayden O'Leary, who started life stewarding in the show ring with his parents, said each year the society attracted a new contingent of young supporters.
"Our community is flexible and open to new ideas," Mr O'Leary said.
"I think some people can be scared off by tradition sometimes but our committee is really welcoming."
With the new Saturday night entertainment act, Rooftop Express, Mr O'Leary, an engineer with the Southern Downs Regional Council, said entertainment was a priority for him.
"It's what brings your crowds in," he said.
"We started the rodeo last year.
"It's important local shows stay up to date with crowds."
It's something the Clifton Show Society must be doing well, as Mr O'Leary noted crowd numbers were up on last year.
"Every year we're all getting busier and busier but show time is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and catch up over a beer," he said.
"It brings so many people into town, spending money at our local businesses."
Mr O'Leary said overall, the 2015 show, his fourth as president, was one of his best.
