Show that’s made for families

Stilt-walking clown "Mr Flash Twinkle Toes" is back for this year's Doveton Show. 127088 Picture: ROB CAREW

By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

THE Doveton Show proves that a day out at the show doesn’t have to cost your family hundreds of dollars.
For the cost of a gold-coin entry, families can stroll Myuna Farm’s grounds filled with low-cost rides, foods, showbags and free entertainers, animals and activities.
The show’s treasurer Veronica Hill said the day out will certainly cost a family less than to get through this month’s Royal Melbourne Show gates – ticketed at $70-plus family entry or $105 for an entry and rides package.
“The whole idea of the show is to supply a cheap alternative for people who can’t otherwise afford to go to the show,” Ms Hill said.
“There’s plenty of free activities. Someone could go in for a gold coin and not have to spend anything to keep themselves occupied for the whole day.”
Crowds are clearly voting with their feet. When it started 11 years ago, about 3000 attended – last year drew a record crowd of more than 22,000.
The show’s 10-member volunteer committee has spent six months organising attractions.
Rides include a giant slide, jumping castle, dodgem cars, thrill rides, the farm’s train ride and bungee.
There are also free childrens crafts and reading activities, vintage cars, music and a stage and roving performance by stilt-walking clown Flash Twinkle Toes’ Silly Circus.
Community groups will also be raising money at food stalls.
“It’s a great family day out,” Ms Hill said.
“People are enjoying it and that’s why they’re coming back.”
Doveton Show is at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton on Sunday 20 September, from 10am to 4pm.