THE Rosewood Poultry Club hosted the annual show at the Rosewood Show Grounds on Sunday, showcasing the feature breeds of Sussex, Orpington and Modern Game.

Among these breeds were soft feather, hard feather and waterfowl, that were all judged across numerous sections by experienced judges who travelled from New South Wales.

Club President Bruce Hodgson said the club has a “huge belief that it is important to have highly experienced and passionate judges”, because the best judges always attract lots of entries.

“This year’s show was one the best that our club has had for many years” he said.

“We counted just under 900 entries, which is 300 more entries than last year’s show.

“Families travelled from as far away as Maryborough, Kingaroy and Northern New South Wales.

“It was a great day with friendly people.”

To prepare for the annual show, the Club committee spends at least three days before the show day getting the space ready, organising the prizes and entries and baking for the visitors.

“We would have baked at least 70 cakes, slices and treats, that were accompanied with 50 steaks for our burgers, and a large number of eggs and bacon for our breakfast, and everything sold out on the day,” Bruce said.

“This is a huge success, because all of the money that was raised from our canteen goes back to the club, which helps with being able to continue successfully into the future.”

Assisting in the canteen was Club Patron Dos Claus, wife of the late Clive Claus a life-long member and stalwart of the Rosewood Poultry Club and in showing poultry in general.

“Dos is a national treasure, an icon and at 80 years of age, a hard worker and an absolute inspiration to our club, who continues to support the club by volunteering in the canteen and helping where she can,” he said.

“Clive Claus who is now passed, but is always remembered, was a walking encyclopedia when it came to all thing’s poultry.

“He was a brilliant man, a mentor and someone who I looked up to.

“Together Dos and Clive, contributed to the club in so many ways, Dos continues to support and Clive is remembered through the Clive Claus Memorial Trophy for best Leghorn of show, that this year was won by Warren Nichols from Fernvale.”

The competition categories included a children’s section, where children as young as six had the chance to show their poultry and ducks.

“I really enjoy seeing the younger generations get in and give the show a go, it is encouraging to see them so proud and also just being involved,” he said.

“Show poultry and owning poultry in general is a great hobby, one that gives a sense of responsibility and pride.

“My passion started as a young boy, and I have been involved in the Club for 44 years, with the last two years spent at President.

“This year at the show I received Reserve Champion in the large soft feather section with a Wyandotte breed which was nice and no matter where I travel to show, I always end up with something, so I must be doing something right.”