The Kempsey Show is a long-standing community event that celebrates agriculture, local talent and the spirit of the Macleay. First held in 1881, the Show continues to bring together exhibitors, competitors, families and visitors for two days of competition, entertainment and connection.
Each year, the Show showcases livestock, equestrian events, community competitions, hall exhibits, attractions and trade sites, while providing opportunities for people of all ages to get involved.
The 2026 Kempsey Show theme, Macleay’s Flora and/or Fauna, celebrates the unique natural environment of the region. From native plants and wildlife to the landscapes that shape our agricultural community, the theme encourages creativity and connection to the local area across hall exhibits and displays.
The first meeting to establish the Kempsey Show was held on 7 June 1881 at the Kempsey School of Arts. With 47 subscribers and the leadership of Mr F G Panton JP, the Macleay Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Association was formed.
The inaugural Kempsey Show took place on 7 and 8 September 1881, featuring horse and cattle competitions, agricultural produce, home industries and a ploughing match. Early exhibits included dairy produce, pigs, poultry, fruit and vegetables, farm implements and locally grown maize, with butter made in wooden churns and cheese produced as a home industry.
By the mid-1880s, the Show had outgrown its original venue. In 1887, the first Show was held at the Sea Street showgrounds, where the main hall was named the Jubilee Hall in recognition of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee year. The late 1800s saw rapid growth in the local dairy industry, reflected in the expansion of dairy cattle exhibits, cream separators and butter entries from surrounding districts.
For more than a century, the Kempsey Show has continued to evolve while remaining true to its agricultural roots and community purpose.
This history was compiled in 2001 by Fran Wale.
Get to know the dedicated volunteers who plan and deliver the Kempsey Show each year.
Browse photos capturing the people, competitions and moments from past Shows.
The Kempsey Show Society gratefully acknowledges the sponsors who support the Show and help make this important community event possible.
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