Geelong Showgrounds facts for kids
The Geelong Showgrounds are a special place in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. They are famous for hosting the Royal Geelong Show every year since 1855! Imagine, that's over 160 years of fun and learning. Today, the showgrounds are located in a suburb called Breakwater.
Contents
About the Royal Geelong Show
The Royal Geelong Show is a big event that celebrates farming and country life. It's a chance for farmers to show off their best livestock (like cows, sheep, and chickens) and produce (like fruits, vegetables, and grains). There are also exciting competitions and awards for the best entries.
But it's not just about farming! The show also has lots of exciting things for everyone. You can find thrilling amusement rides that spin you around. There's a fun area called a sideshow alley with games and prizes. And don't forget the famous showbags! These are special bags filled with goodies from different companies.
A Look Back in Time: The Showgrounds' Journey
The Geelong Showgrounds haven't always been in the same spot. They have moved a few times over the years!
The First Showgrounds (1855)
The group that started the show, called the Geelong and Western District Agricultural and Horticultural Society, began in February 1855. Their very first showgrounds were in East Geelong. This area was near Eastern Park.
Moving to a New Home (1891)
The showgrounds moved to a second location in October 1891. This new spot was south of Ormond Road. A large wooden grandstand, which is a big seating area for spectators, was built there. It was about 40 metres (130 feet) long!
Sharing with the Racecourse (1907)
In 1907, the showgrounds moved again. This time, they went to the new Geelong Racecourse. Moving the grandstand was a huge job! On April 14, 1907, the 100-tonne grandstand was carefully moved from its old spot. It was placed on 52 large rollers and pulled by a special traction engine across the Queenscliff railway line. This amazing feat shows how important the grandstand was! It stayed at the racecourse until at least the early 1990s.
The agricultural society shared the Geelong Racecourse with horse racing events until 1954. That's when they finally moved to their current home in Breakwater.
