The Show must go on
NOT even Cyclone Debbie can keep Show Whitsunday away, with president Donna Rogers confirming the show will in fact go on next month.
"Since the Show's inception 105 years ago, we've only had one show cancelled and that was due to the world war," Ms Rogers said.
"(So) we were (always) going to run it in one form or another."
The Proserpine Showgrounds fell victim to the category four cyclone when it hit on March 28.
The ground's overhead power was knocked down, the main pavilion was blown out, six buildings received damage, the main ring fence was damaged in several sections and one building had two feet of water wash through.
Ms Rogers said she had pictures sent to her before she ventured out to the grounds to view it for herself.
"I was slightly prepared but the enormity of the pavilion and the way in which the roof had been lifted and how walls had imploded into other buildings... it was like a slow motion movie," she said.
It was then that the future of the much loved show looked grim.
"It wasn't a case of we can just get in and clear it," Ms Rogers said.
"We've had to make it secure and work out how we can afford to put it back together."
But with assistance from Whitsunday Regional Council and community organisations, the show will see another year on June 23 and 24.
Show favourites including the arts and crafts pavilion, poultry exhibit, baby animal farm, the bar and more, will feature again this year, plus some brand new additions not yet seen including trick rider Mikayla Jade and Buzz Bubbles. Despite the show going ahead, Ms Rogers said the grounds wouldn't be completely repaired for another two years.
"I want to thank Whitsunday Regional Council for assisting us and community organisations who came to our aid with donations and funding," she said.
This Saturday, a working bee will be held at the showground to pick up any small items which have not yet been retrieved.
For more information visit www.showwhitsunday.com. au or www.facebook.com/showwhitsunday.