Gunnedah Showground has been a hive of activity this week as the dedicated volunteers prepare for the weekend.
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The annual show will kick off on Friday and run through the weekend, with plenty of things for locals of all ages to see and do.
New elements this year include fire whip cracking displays, V8 ute display, live music and a tug-o-war in which teams of eight take on a vintage prime mover for cash prizes.
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The usual favourites are back again - the animal nursery where kids can get up close with furry friends, sideshow alley for sweets and treats, rides both fun and thrilling, and the grand parade.
A highlight of the family-friendly event is the announcement of the showgirl competition and opening of the art and photography exhibition on Friday at 6pm.
Show society president Rob Witts said a main attraction this year is live music from Newcastle band Hurricane Fall on Saturday in the main arena from 7pm.
Mr Witts said the show ring gates will be thrown open so locals can set-up on the grass and soak up the atmosphere under the stars.
In preparation for the 131st show, society members have been scurrying about the grounds this week tackling an endless list of task including cleaning out sheds, placing portable grandstands, marking out sites, and setting up the wool pavilion, Griffiths Pavilion, art and photography pavilion, poultry shed, animal nursery, and show jumps and dressage arenas for equine events on Friday.
Gunnedah Shire Council staff have also been busy replacing and repairing timbers in the main grandstand ahead of the weekend.
"The arena looks in good order and the grounds are good," show society president Rob Witts said.
Mr Witts said it was hard to know what numbers to expect over the three days because of the combination of school holidays and public holidays.
"People have got jet lag after the long weekend," he said.
They've spent their money and they've gone away."
He said the effect of the drought would also be felt, with stud stock numbers of sheep and cattle reduced, and the timing of the Moree and Gilgandra shows.
"It will have bearing on the number of fat lambs, and we don't have any pigs this year, so it has taken its toll," Mr Witts said.
"Initially we didn't have any trots running at all because they were going to other shows ... but now it's going ahead."
To view a full program for the Gunnedah Show, visit https://www.gunnedahshowsociety.com.au/
