A Proud History Since 1904

The Barron Valley Agricultural Pastoral and Industrial Association was formed in 1903, with William Marnane as its first chairman. Just one year later, on the 20th and 21st of June 1904, the very first Atherton Show was held—right where the current showgrounds still stand today.

Since then, the show has been held every year, with the exception of 1925 and three years during World War II when the grounds were occupied by the army. Over the decades, the showgrounds have evolved with the community:

• A grandstand and oval were added in 1918.
• Ring lighting, fencing, and seating came in 1934–35.
• During the army’s occupancy from 1942–1945, a military igloo was built—now known as Merrilands Hall, a much-loved showgrounds fixture.

In 2001, the show staged a Centenary of Federation Grand Parade, showcasing the creativity of individuals, schools, and groups as they marched through the decades in style.

We continue to honour our heritage through stories, photos, and the people who made it all possible—like the volunteers captured in this 1989 photo:
L–R: Jack Nott, Jack Toomey, Gordon Taylor, Frank Toomey

Do you have historical photos or stories to share? We’d love to include them in our archives!