HILLS INDEPENDENT HILLS 129 MARCH 2026 | Page 18

OUT & ABOUT

Hawkesbury Show returns for 139th year of country tradition and family fun

The Hawkesbury’ s biggest and most beloved annual event is set to return this April, with the 139th Annual Hawkesbury Show promising three unforgettable days of entertainment, community spirit, and country charm.
Running from Friday, April 24 to Sunday, April 26 at the Hawkesbury Showground in Clarendon, this iconic event continues to celebrate the region’ s rich rural heritage while offering something for everyone, from lifelong locals to first-time visitors.
Widely regarded as one of the premier agricultural shows in New South Wales, the Hawkesbury Show brings together the very best in livestock, arts and crafts, horticulture, fruit, vegetables and local trade displays. It’ s a true showcase of
the Hawkesbury’ s deep connection to agriculture, highlighting the people, produce and traditions that have shaped the region for generations.
Of course, no Hawkesbury Show would be complete without the vibrant carnival atmosphere, featuring show rides, sideshow games, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky.
This year’ s show features an exciting lineup of entertainment guaranteed to thrill crowds of all ages.
High-adrenaline Airtime FX Motorbike stunt performances will have spectators on the edge of their seats, while the ever-popular Racing Pigs and Farmyard Dash promise laughs and excitement for families.
The Rooftop Express Show will deliver
impressive horsemanship, and the Woodchop Spectacular will showcase the strength and skill of some of Australia’ s finest competitors.
Adding to the action are pavilion displays, shearing and milking demonstrations, the Hawkesbury Young Farmers Challenge, and the creative Lego Soap Box Rally, offering visitors a chance to experience both traditional and modern country pursuits.
The Main Arena will also host special performances, including the breathtaking German Wheel act, along with the grand parade and an Anzac Day ceremony on Saturday.
The show runs from 9am to 11pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 9am to 4pm on Sunday, giving families plenty
of time to explore, learn and enjoy everything on offer. More than just an event, the Hawkesbury Show remains a cherished community tradition – a place where the country meets the city, and where generations come together to celebrate the unique spirit of the Hawkesbury
Patrons are encouraged to travel to the Show by train, rail services are included in the pre-purchased show ticket and Clarendon railway station is directly adjacent to the showground. Those travelling to the showground by car should be aware that traffic congestion on surrounding roads may occur and authorities have approved changes to normal traffic routes to minimise disruption.

A comedic drama that defined a generation

CASTLE HILL PLAYERS PRESENTS THE GRADUATE
Castle Hill Players are bringing one of the most iconic stories of the 20th century to life with their stage production of The Graduate, adapted by Terry Johnson from the novel by Charles Webb and directed by Stephen Snars. Set in Los Angeles during the 1960s, the production captures a time of immense social change. The space race
Mitchel Doran, Brooke Salisbury
Photo Penny Johnson is captivating the world, folk music fills the airwaves, and a new generation is beginning to question the expectations placed upon them. At the centre of it all is Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate struggling to find his place in a world that seems to have his future already mapped out.
When Benjamin returns home to Pasadena, he is uncertain about his next step and eager to break free from his parents’ expectations. His life takes an unexpected turn when Mrs Robinson, a sophisticated and much older family friend, seduces him and begins a secret affair. However, the situation becomes increasingly complicated when Benjamin
develops genuine feelings for Elaine – Mrs Robinson’ s daughter.
Blending humour, emotion, and sharp social commentary, The Graduate explores themes of identity, generational conflict, and the tension between conformity and personal freedom. Audiences can expect a compelling and entertaining production, complete with the nostalgic spirit and music of the era.
Based on the acclaimed novel and the classic 1967 film, this stage adaptation captures the wit, charm, and poignancy that made The Graduate a defining story for generations. PERFORMANCE DETAILS: Dates: 27 March – 18 April 2026 Times: Wednesday, Friday and
Saturday at 8pm; Sunday at 4pm Venue: Pavilion Theatre, Castle Hill
Showgrounds Tickets: $ 30 adults, $ 25 concession Bookings can be made online at paviliontheatre. org. au / the-graduate or by calling 02 9634 2929. For enquiries, contact 02 9634 3846 or email admin @ paviliontheatre. org. au
Don’ t miss this timeless story, brought to life on stage by one of the region’ s most respected community theatre groups.
16 ISSUE 129 // MARCH 2026 theindependentmagazine. com. au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT