COMMUNITIES throughout NSW are breathing a collective sigh of relief as agricultural shows and events are making a return after an extended hiatus.
Geurie Rodeo Committee member Justin Potter said the whole committee was excited to be able to put on the much-loved community event this year, over two years since their last event.
"First there was the drought, which knocked everyone for a six," Mr Potter said.
"Our communities were really struggling.
"Then just as things were starting to look up, we got hit with the global pandemic and all the border closures, lockdowns and restrictions.
"Even though country people are used to isolation, they also rely heavily on community events like picnic races, agricultural shows, campdrafts and rodeos as they are a crucial thread in the social fabric of these communities with the dual effect of boosting both the economy and morale when times are tough."
These events are volunteer run with all money raised going back into the community and provide important fundraising streams for local groups, and when a town only has a population of 700, the influx of visitors that the event attracts provides a vital source of income for local businesses.
Mr Potter said rodeos, campdrafts, dances, picnic races and the like all offered an opportunity for people to blow off some steam, get off the farm, let their hair down and have some fun.
"The effect of COVID -19 on this important social outlet has been far reaching, and locals are champing at the bit to get back to some semblance of normality," he said.
"There's so much talk around mental health and the importance of talking to your mates, and these events offer us the opportunity to do just that. It's how we do it in the bush."
With the Geurie Rodeo set to throw some dust on Saturday, March 20, the Geurie Rodeo Committee is hoping visitors will come from all around the region.
Geurie is an easy drive from most places in western NSW and there is camping available onsite, so if you have been busting to get out into the fresh air, this is a perfect opportunity
The main event kicks off at 6pm with tickets available at the gate. Food and beverages on sale, no BYO.
COVID regulations will be in place.
