October certainly was a strange month with record cold snaps, record rain and strong winds impacting shows and events.

Most operators are reporting a very poor month.

As usual, there are many factors influencing this; with many Victorian shows having now lost the traditional show day holiday this has had a major impact on what would be the main show day attendance by locals.

The Mildura Show was disappointing, with the region still in terrible drought.

The Geelong Show also lost its show holiday and the Bendigo Show reported lower attendances then forecasted.

The Royal Melbourne Show was hit by terrible weather which impacted attendance and business for operators.

On a more positive note, the Hobart Show recorded attendance of more than 40,000 over the four-day event, thanks to perfect weather.

The high rents now being charged at the Royal Shows is a hot topic at the moment and we are certainly concerned about operating costs blowing out over the next year.

While the rural shows continue to struggle, operators working the October festivals and events are reporting good attendances.

Safe travelling.

Phil Durkin

Chair, Transportable Rides & Amusements