Page 3 - The Outdoor Showman April - June 2025

VSG VSG President’s Page President’s Page
VSG President’s Report
PO Box 36
Ascot Vale Victoria
Australia 3032
Telephone: (03) 9376 8544
Email: vicshowmen@gmail.com
victorianshowmensguild.com.au
Office:
Shop 1. 157 Mt Alexander Road
Flemington VIC 3031
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday
9.00am - 4.00pm
Office Bearers 2025
PRESIDENT
Elwin Leroy Bell
VICE PRESIDENTS
Brad Verfurth (Snr)
Emile Verfurth III
Brady Phillips
Adam Reardon
Clayton Taylor
Aaron Pink
Bob Brown (Jnr)
Travis Taylor
Brod Pavier
Annette Calder
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Josh Allan-Reardon
Les (Chippa) Chant
Paul Davis
James Hudson-Quay
Sonya Nocen
Cheyenne Nocen-Phillips
Andrew Quay
Kyle Quay
SECRETARY
Eileen McClure
TREASURER
Terrence Moon
TRUSTEE
Marjorie Chant
EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Justine Sinclair
Dear Members, fellow Showmen,
industry friends and readers,
As I sit down to write this, the New South Wales Ag Shows
are wrapping up, and many of our members are chasing
the warmth across Queensland and the NT. It’s been an
incredible season so far, with the Sydney Royal Easter
Show marking a true highlight. I was absolutely blown
away by the turnout and the energy—our community
really came together and the Shows following the
Royal—Hawkesbury, Bathurst, Orange, and Dubbo have been met with
good crowds and a great atmosphere.
One thing that stood out to me this year was the carnival area—particularly
at the Royal and Hawkesbury. It was nothing short of breathtaking.
The presentation was spectacular, and I couldn’t be prouder of how our
Showmen and women delivered such an outstanding carnival experience.
It was world-class. When I walked through, I could feel the passion and
dedication that everyone poured into their work. It was a true testament
o what we can achieve when we come together.
That said, there’s something I want to talk about that has been on my mind
recently. As we approach a federal election, it’s natural to feel a bit uncertain
about what’s ahead. I’ve seen how this can affect people—there’s often
a hesitancy in the air, and we’ve noticed it in some of the shows too, with
lower attendance and a dip in spending. It’s understandable, given the
political climate and the chaos happening globally. With issues like US tariffs,
geopolitical tensions, and the global economy in flux, it’s no surprise that many
are feeling cautious. But I want to remind everyone that this is just part of the
cycle. We’ve been through it before, and it will pass. Historically, confidence
returns once the dust settles, and the new government finds its footing. So,
let’s remain optimistic and stay engaged things will steady, as they always do.
On another note, something that’s been raised recently—and I feel it’s
important to address—is the cleanliness of our sites. We’ve had some feedback
about the state of things after major events and shows, and I think it’s
something we all need to take seriously. It’s critical that we, as a community,
leave our sites clean, tidy, and free of any rubbish or waste. I know it’s easy to
overlook, but we’ve got to remember that our Delegates volunteer their time to
help manage our organisation and support us. They have their own businesses
to run, and it’s not their responsibility to clean up after us. So, let’s all be
mindful of how our actions affect others and make a conscious effort to
leave things in the best possible shape.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Victorian Showmen’s Guild election process is about
to kick off. The Australian Electoral Commission will be sending out forms and
information to eligible members. Please, make sure the office has your updated
contact details so you can participate in this important election. This is our
chance to have a say in the future of our industry. I encourage all Showmen
and women to either nominate themselves or speak to a fellow member who
you believe would be great for the role. Your voice matters, and this is your
opportunity to shape what comes next.
As we continue on our journey, I wish all of you safe travels, great business,
and the best of luck in everything you do.
Warm regards,
Elwin Bell Jnr.
President
THE OUTDOOR SHOWMAN 1