Simon Harris, the Taoiseach and father of young children, is certainly used to having wet wipes handy for their numerous applications. However, he likely wasn’t expecting to require them at his entrance to the Tullamore Show, where an overzealous greeter left cosmetic stains on his blouse.
Following swift cleaning efforts by a helper, Mr. Harris was ready to interact with the press and public during his inaugural visit to the largest annual agricultural event in the nation.
The fair, resurrected in 1991, consistently draws in multitudes regardless of climatic conditions. However, this year’s fair-weather sky allowed for an even higher turnout of over 60,000 attendees, many of whom were present from as early as 8am.
Among these attendees was Angela Fleming from Crossmolina, County Mayo, who appeared at the event at 8.45 am after departing home at 5.30 am. Present in her possession was a basket filled with her submissions for traditional bread contest, thus exhibiting her preparations for the major occasion.
Deirdre Fox, coordinator inside the bustling Odlums tent, marshalled the competitors to their respective slots amidst a maze of activities, contests and contestants.
The primary competition of the day was the All-Ireland Home Baking championship. Finalists here had earned their places through several regional exhibitions held earlier that summer. Given the theme for the final, Afternoon Tea, there was an extensive display of exquisite china. For many, it marked the climax of prolonged periods of preparing and strategising.
While monetary rewards were at stake, so were national titles. Creating a special sense of competition were two siblings from Rhode, County Offaly – Stephanie Clarke and Aoibheann Dunne. Both sisters had made it to the grand finale after claiming victories at the Mullingar and Ballymoney exhibitions in Northern Ireland, bringing alive a tantalising family rivalry.
The FBD National Livestock Show had a plethora of categories totalling 74, covering everything from scones and bread to tea brack, cupcakes, flapjacks, tarts, quiche, mince pies, a specific section for teenagers, and even a specific area for gluten-free items. The event itself appealed to a broad range of audience with nuanced attractions that include a sustainable village for livestock, live bands, fashion shows, cookery demos, a forestry village, equestrian contests, sheep dog trials, exhibits of art and photography, rare breeds show, and the National Farm Skills contest held by Macra. A notable attraction was the livestock contests which had a cash prize amounting to €175,000, drawing in participants from many corners of Ireland.
One could also gaze upon trade displays featuring everything from colossal tractors and combine harvesters to wrenches, exhibiting every conceivable piece of farming equipment one could think of. The Fashion tent was a favourite spot for many to cool down in the shade whilst enjoying a spectacle of catwalk displays. Additional competitions included Bonny Baby, Little Miss Offaly, Little Mister Offaly, Glamorous Granny, Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Man, and Traditional Farmer to add to the liveliness.