Temperatures on Friday peaked at 12 degrees, with the miserable weather resulting in low attendance rates at both the show and the accompanying harness racing meeting.

Saturday saw crowds flock back to the show, and the improved weather (temperatures reached 17.9 degrees), along with the appearance of Team D-Max, the show parade and the annual fireworks display, resulted in the action picking up.

But the weekend’s chilly conditions did not compare to 2000.

“On the Sunday it was down to six degrees and the judges and people couldn’t get home through Orange,” Mrs Hood said.

Mrs Hood welcomed the sunshine, and even warmer temperatures (up to 19.2 degrees at 3pm) on Sunday.

“And the fine weather Saturday was definitely a highlight,” she said, admitting numbers were down slightly compared with previous years.

“As much as we need rain, can it rain after the show is finished?” she joked.

“Everything has been running smoothly, everything has gone ahead quite well … you have your few little hiccups, like normal but you just move forward from that and continue on.”

A brawl at the Hopetoun Street entrance to the showground did have to be broken up by police on Saturday night, and Mrs Hood said the police always patrolled the event to keep attendees safe.

She thanked the police, as well as the community, for contributing to a successful show.

“Thanks to everyone for coming, and to all our sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers … without them it wouldn’t happen.”