Roll up to the Launceston Show …

Published on 10 October 2017

Royal Launceston Show Society president Jock Gibson WEB.jpg

Roll up, roll up.

Never before have those words held such weight as they do for this year's Royal Launceston Show.

Northern Tasmanians are being asked to vote with their feet by attending this year's show, with reports it could be the last unless patrons show their support.

Royal Launceston Show Society president Jock Gibson says this year's show will be action-packed, with activities designed to delight people of all ages - including the traditional sideshow alley, show bags, equestrian events, the animal nursery, wood chopping and all the regular agricultural displays.

Jock has been involved on the show council for the past 13 years, but his affiliation with the Royal Launceston Show dates back 30 years.

A livestock agent by trade, Jock said his connection with the agriculture sector in North Tasmania drew him to the show life - and keeps him coming back year after year.

It's just a perfect fit, he says.

There will be plenty of free entertainment at this year's show, including animal wranglers, the PCYC Taiko Drummers, and rock n roll dancers, Skooterz.

For those with a penchant for all things agricultural, there is a full schedule of judging across a wide range of breeds, including beef cattle, angora goats, cavies, dairy cattle, cats, dairy goats, equestrian show horses and show jumping, junior cattle handlers, sheep and miniature horses.

The show has been running since 1873, though the descriptor "royal" was only added in 1984 after a royal decree was granted giving it this official status.

Gates will open at 8.30am on Thursday and run through until 5pm on Saturday, including a night spectacular on the Friday night through until 10pm. Admission is adults $15, children 5-15 $6 and concession $11. A family pass for 2 adults and 2 children is $35.

The Friday night activities will start at 5pm, with admission $5 for adults and children.

Early-bird tickets are available from Telstra Shops in Launceston's Quadrant Mall and Kings Meadows or from Heritage Isle Credit Union. Adult prices $11, children 5-15 $5 and concession $10. A family pass is $32. You can also book your early bird tickets online at launcestontickets.com.au.