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BALMORAL SHOWGROUNDS AND OVAL

Location Harrow-Balmoral Road BALMORAL, Southern Grampians Shire File Number 243 Level Stage 2 study complete

[1/1] 23262 Showgrounds and Oval

Statement of Significance

What is significant?
The Balmoral Showground is situated approximately on a 26 acre reserve within the boundaries of the original township. The site is approximately one kilometer north west from the centre of the township on the Harrow-Balmoral Road. Within the reserve there are a number of structures which relate specifically to the annual Pastoral and Agricultural Society show. These include a large oval showing ring in the centre of the site, a sheep/pig display shed, a poultry shed, cattle/horse stalls, a kiosk, luncheon hall, display hall, office and various other small buildings. There are also buildings for the local football club located on the site, and a large shed which has been built for agricultural research.

How is it significant?
The Balmoral showground is of historical and social significance to the township of Balmoral and the Southern Grampians Shire.

Why is it significant?
The Balmoral Showground is of historical significance for its important early role in the development of a local Agricultural and Pastoral Society, reflecting the interests of the surrounding pastoral community. The showground is of further significance as a physical representation of the importance of pastoralism to the area, particularly in the nineteenth and twentieth century. They are also significant for their social associations with the community, as Pastoral and Agricultural Shows have always been a very important social focus for country people. The Balmoral Show has had a long standing association and recognition throughout the Shire since the 1870s as an important local institution, where local people were able to gain recognition for their produce and skills, where new products were exhibited, and as an important local event on the social calendar. The showgrounds provide an important community meeting place, serving as the venue or clubrooms for a variety of community groups and the local people. The success and popularity of the Balmoral Show demonstrates the continuing strong pastoral and agricultural focus of the local community, and the importance placed on this.