By Krystal Sellars
From the poise and precision of the horse competitions to the adrenaline rush of freestyle motocross, there was something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s Cessnock Show.
The show was held on February 20 and 21, and president Shiralee Adams said it went well overall with solid gate takings, despite the cancellation of the popular demolition derby just days prior due to new safety regulations that were introduced that week.
A late-afternoon storm on the Saturday also affected a few events, but it cleared in time for a fantastic fireworks display to conclude the show.
Other highlights included the Gravity FMX motocross demonstrations, camel races, and the art exhibition and competitions.
The free circus was well-attended, and a performer who was injured on the Friday night is understood to be recovering well.
The Cessnock Young Woman of the Year was announced as part of the opening ceremony on the Saturday afternoon, with Marissa Caban, 23, receiving the winner’s sash.
A stay-at-home-mum and small business owner, Marissa is passionate about rural and agricultural issues – her husband’s family are seventh-generation cattle farmers from Congewai.
Marissa said it was “surreal” to be announced as the winner of the Young Woman competition, and that she hopes it will be a stepping stone for her to become actively involved in the community.
Marissa will represent Cessnock in The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Zone Zone 5 final, which will be held at Cessnock Leagues Club in January 2027.
