The Show Legend Award represents a unique individual commitment to ‘continuing the Show tradition’. The award recognises participation and contribution to the Show as well as a desire to uphold Show traditions by passing on knowledge and experience to the next generation of the Show Family.
The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) introduced the award in 2001, establishing a new tradition in honoring individuals that have made a significant impact on the Show. Over the years, many unique characters have received the award and become part of Show history.
 S. John Ross
2007 Show Legend, S. John Ross, came to the Show in 1948 with boxer Jimmy Sharman. The Silhouette Man, as he is affectionately known, has been a feature of the Show, cutting out silhouette portraits of Showgoers, for almost 60 years. S. John Ross was honoured for his longstanding contributions to the character of the Show with the 2007 Show Legend Award.
Darrell Bishop
After 35 years of service to the RAS, Darrell Bishop from Mudgee, NSW, cemented his legendary status at the Show, with a Show Legend Award in 2006. Darrell has been a leader in the Goat section, having been Breed Captain for Boer Goats and coordinated the National Boer Goat Show since 2000.
Don Eyb
2005 Show Legend Don Eyb received this honour for his personal contributions to the Show over the last 35 years. The former inspector of the NSW Police Force is the man behind the magic of the Main Arena Stockmen’s Ride, and has also been involved in the Tentpegging Teams Challenge.
Lloyd Robertson
Founder of the Holden Precision Driving Team, Lloyd Robertson was honoured with a Show Legend Award in 2004. Robertson took the Main Arena driving exhibition to new levels of spectacular, developing the basic routine into an exceptional choreographed performance.
Jimmy Sharman
In 2003, Jimmy Sharman was honoured as a Show Legend for his contributions to the life of the Show. Jimmy first came to the Show with his father in 1926 as part of the Jimmy Sharman Boxing Troupe. The famous boxing tent was established by his father, Jimmy Snr in 1911 and remained a feature for over 70 years. Jimmy Jnr continued the legacy, boxing his way into the heart of Show tradition.
John Nash
John Nash won over crowds in the Main Arena for over 40 years with his golden voice and engaging personality. He began calling the shots in the ring in 1957 when the regular Show announcer failed to turn up for work. John stepped up to take his place and never looked back. John was also involved in developing the Young Achievers program.
David Foster
Australian woodchopping legend, David Foster, has chopped his way through 100 Show Championships. In 1998, he swung into the history books claiming his 1000th championship at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Foster captained the Australian Woodchopping team 28 times in 40 appearances for his country. Named axeman of the year nine consecutive times, Foster was recognised as a Show Legend in 2001.
 Frank Foster
Frank Foster truly encapsulated the spirit of the Show with his unique talents and entertaining performances. Born into the Show family, his father was a famous Showman, this carnival legend worked as an acrobat, spruiker and performing Indian. Foster was king of the sideshow, responsible for a riveting array of unforgettable acts and inspired artistry.
Mary Willsallen
Mary Willsallen is a veteran of more than 50 consecutive Shows. A respected judge and elite equestrian competitor, Mary‘s achievements both at the Show and in the industry have earned her significant recognition. Mary’s horse stud at Harden was known for producing some of the finest horses and ponies in Australia. Her involvement with the Equestrian Federation of Australia Council spanned more than 20 years and her work was rewarded with an AO for her service to the horse industry. Mary was honoured with a Show Legend Award in 2001.
Elisabeth and Annette Thomson
These remarkable sisters began a life long affiliation with the Show in 1964, enjoying success exhibiting Holsteins. In 1976, the sisters turned their attention to ensuring the legacy of the Show continued to develop. Elisabeth and Annette Thomson earned an RAS Contributor of the Year Award for their work on the famed Milky Way demonstrations. Their commitment to education at the Show spanned 30 years and their contributions in this area have made a significant impact on the culture of the Show.
Cliff James
Show Legend Cliff James, from Goonellabah, began his association with the Sydney Royal Easter Show in 1946. He enjoyed 40 years of competition and oversaw the Northern District display for 25. In this time the district won an impressive 10 blue ribbons. Cliff and his team also held the record for the Show’s largest pumpkin and melon.
|
