The continuous learning experience of the Royal Easter Show

What wonderful enjoyable experiences the Sydney Royal Easter Show offers! My whole family enjoyed the Show for many years. In the Moore Park days, we drove there quite early and parked in Martin Road. We watched the day's preparations taking place and left in the evening when the Show closed.

After the move to Homebush, we travelled by train. Once we retired, my husband and I went to the Show almost every day that it was open. As we aged even more, we began spending time at the Novotel with the luxury of simply crossing the road after the fireworks to go to bed.

Our sons and our granddaughter grew up seeing the Show as a major enjoyment and learning experience in our lives each year. For a number of years my husband and I taught in country towns and learnt firsthand about the joys and difficulties of country life. There were times when we were flooded out of our home and times when, after tapping on the side of the tank, we knew that it was time to do the washing in the bathwater after our bath.

After moving to Sydney schools, with all this in mind, each year (1966-present) we admired the District Exhibits and the magnificent animals exhibited in peak condition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. As Deputy Principal of a city school, I ensured that buses were hired and the whole school spent a day at the Show each year. Those students learnt so much there.

Over the years we bought cheeses, honey, and clothes. We took friends along using our Guest Badges and they always considered it a very special day. First District Exhibits, then tea and scones at CWA, through the Art and Horticulture, along to the Wood Chopping and animal pavilions. Lunch in the Members' Dining Room was followed by Ring Events, a visit to clothing for a pretty blouse, men's shirts, and to order made-to-measure shoes, back to the Members for a drink in the bar, then evening Ring Events and Fireworks.

Now at 92 years of age, I look back with enjoyment on all those days of Sydney Royal Easter Show experiences.

WINIFRED WILCOX