Over 2,300 people flocked to the PMD Arena to attend the 30th annual Drayton Farm Show on April 6 and 7.
Chairman Glenn Dobben said that figure is up over past attendance numbers, much to the delight of the Drayton Kinsmen, who annually host the agri-business showcase.
“It was fantastic … both the exhibitors and the patrons liked the new floor plan,” Dobben said. “At this point, we’re very, very happy with the results.”
Not the least of which is $2,300 raised through admissions for cystic fibrosis research. The rest of the show proceeds, including the remaining $4,600 from admissions, will be put towards various Kinsmen projects in the community.
Dobben said club members received great feedback from exhibitors and customers alike, many whom have already requested to be included in the 2012 farm show. Mark Junkin, of Mitchell, was among those who lauded show organizers for their efforts.
In a letter sent to the Advertiser, Junkin said he was “blown away by the level of professionalism” of the organizers, which exceeded that on display at many larger, international shows. “The fact that this is a community-run event really demonstrates the quality of your Kinsmen Club and the community at large,” Junkin said. “You should definitely be proud of what your community has to offer.”
Dobben said a lot of thanks should be given to the Drayton Rotary Club, which helped run the door, as well as minor hockey representatives, who prepared and served food.
He also noted that for the first time, high school students worked at the show to obtain their volunteer hours (anyone wanted to volunteer at future shows should visit www.draytonkinsmen.ca).
But Dobben said most credit for the success of the 2011 show should be given to “the whole community of Mapleton for supporting us.”
