ADDING to a run of successful spring agricultural shows across the state was the Yea Show on November 25, with solid entries across the board and the return of horse events this year.

According to Yea Agricultural, Pastoral & Horticultural Association's secretary, Kimm Noonan, "The show was a big success with a slight increase in the gate, despite the rain on Friday night and a few showers early on Saturday".

Ms Noonan said comments from the public appeared very positive, with "Many people saying it was the best show ever."

She reported good entries in all pavilion sections and livestock sections.

The entries reflected the exceptional quality of the cattle, with approximately 50 stud entries and over 40 entries in the “Hoof and Hook” competition.

"It was great to have the cattle back and the horses as well with a great turn out of horses despite two other major horse events on the day," Ms Noonan said.

The gymkhana ring was well supported and ran well past all the other horse rings.

Among the main attractions, Mansfield's Stuart Bryant and his family's whip-cracking display was well received and drew a big crowd, as did the woodchop championships.

Ms Noonan said another highlight was the exceptional jumping by the eight dogs competing in the Dog High Jump.

"The crowd love this event and dogs come across from the yard dog sheep trials to compete; Jim won the over 60cm class with a jump of 2.11m, while local dog Shadow won the 50 to 60cm class with a jump of 1.98m, but it was Kelly from the under 50cm class who stole the show winning that class and clearing the 2.11m height," she said.

The Northern Region Sheep Yard Dog Trials at Yea were a culmination of four shows being, Seymour, Euroa, Alexandra and Yea, and received over 100 entries.

"I think the atmosphere of the show and a return to incorporating as many traditional rural events is a strong point of Yea Show," said Ms Noonan.

While there were only two teams in the Young Farmer Challenge this year, it is hoped that more teams will take part next year with a suggestion of a category for secondary students and maybe even a challenge for the "old' farmer.

Shane from Yea Cranes showed off the capabilities of his truck and crane saw, much to the delight of the younger children.

While the Pete Miller Band was most entertaining, and those who stayed appreciated his music, the crowd did not linger after 4.30pm, unfortunately, according to Ms Noonan.

She said, "The Yea Show was very successful thanks to a large team of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers and committee members.