Show promises something for everyone

With a unique mix of theatrical and musical entertainment, traditional show ring events and informative talks and practical demonstrations, this year’s Norco North Coast National is set to reshape the future of the traditional agricultural show.

The finishing touches are being made to the Lismore Showground in preparation for the Norco North Coast National, which opens to the public on Thursday (October 16) and runs until Sunday.

A highlight of this year’s show is the Southern Cross University Sustainable Living Expo, which will showcase Australia’s finest thinking in carbon neutral living, the Green economy, renewable energy, sustainable buildings and art, and better ways for us to manage our resources.

The Sustainable Living Expo is a first for the region and will feature more than 100 exhibitors showcasing sustainable initiatives, practical workshops, Local Food Chef Challenges and a non-stop talking tent. Visual arts students from Southern Cross University will also add a special touch to the Expo, with a range of artworks created from recycled objects including the spectacular 'Ilium Momentica' by final year student James Smythe.

For traditional show events, the Show Ring will be the place to be during the day with dog trials, camp drafting and horse judging. On Friday night, Australia’s first original and fastest growing freestyle motocross team in Australia, FMX KAOS, are sure to delight the crowd with tricks including the ‘heart attack’, ‘jackhammer’ and the ‘dead body’. Saturday night will feature the Country Energy Rodeo.

In the Circus Tent, ticketed events will include The Space Cowboy and the Garnished Burlesque Show, while at the SCU stage, Southern Cross University contemporary music bands will showcase their talent from Thursday to Saturday from 9pm until late.

Gates open at 9am every day and close around 11.30pm, except for Sunday when it closes at 5pm. The Southern Cross University Sustainable Living Expo opens at 10am.

Tickets for the Norco North Coast National (including entry to the Expo) can be purchased from the Unibar at $18 for adults, $10 concession. Students and concession holders will be able to gain entry to the show grounds and see a ticketed event for $20 ($25 adults). Four-day show passes and family passes are also available. Tickets are also available at the gate.

Photo: ’Ilium Momentica’, by Southern Cross University visual arts student James Smythe, has been installed at the Lismore Showground as part of the Sustainable Living Expo.