DUBBO local and long-time show volunteer Alan Comerford has been awarded a Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Award of Excellence for his service and dedication to the Dubbo Show.
Presented by RAS councillor, Rowena Petrie, Mudgee, during the interbreed sheep judging on May 25, Mr Comerford has been involved with the popular event since 1993.
Most recently helping out with the running of the sheep section and the NSW State Sheep Show that is held in conjunction with the Dubbo Show, Mr Comerford has also assisted in a range of sections including the horse, pig and cattle competitions, as well as with a number of the ring events in the main arena.
Despite being faced with major health issues, he continues to still assist with the show.
"It is a reason to get out of bed each day, and I thoroughly enjoy it," he said.
Witnessing the development of young people, from school aged children through to young adults, through individuals taking on responsiblities and positions within the Dubbo Show Society, Mr Comerford said it is a pleasure to be a part of a very great group of people.
To show appreciation of the hard work and committment Mr Comerford has shown towards the event, he was nominated by the committee for the RAS Award of Excellance for his service and dedication to the Dubbo Show and in particular the sheep section.
Described as "friendly, courteous and very obliging to those he come in contact with", he has a continued to play an active role in the committee since joining those many years ago.
"He is never afraid to question decision that have been made, always looking for news ideas to help improve the staging of the show and stream lining of the processes involved," a nominee said.
"It is hard to find dedicated people to work tirelessly during the week before the show, during the show and for the few days after the show, but Alan has always been ready to put his hand up to help - no questions asked."
Awards were also given out by the Agricultural Societies Council's Next Generation group to recognise young people contributing to agricultural shows.
Reece Webster, 17, Bathurst was presented an award for his work exhibiting at shows with his Suffolk stud, Lindean.
Mr Webster, inherited the stud from his grandmother six years ago and his Suffolks are a constant feature at many shows around the state.
Charlie Shadwell, 18, was also presented with an award for his efforts on the Dubbo Show Committee which he joined when he was 16.
Mr Shadwell played a large role in the organisation of the NSW Sheep Show at Dubbo this year, including setting up the photo booth.
Geena Purcell, a Group 11 ASC Next Generation delegate said the ribbons were to thank Charlie and Reece for their work and encourage their ongoing involvement.
