Established in 1881, the Kempsey Show Society is one of the longest running volunteer organisations in the town, with the two-day event itself a Macleay institution.

The annual show is the culmination of many months of hard work by the committee, which started planning next year’s show almost immediately after this year's was completed.

Show Society president Ray Walkden said they were seeking both monetary and physical contributions for the 2015 event.

“I hope people in town realise - if we don’t have the money, then they don’t have a show,” he said.

“The business sector of Kempsey and its surrounding areas have been generous with their support, but like many others this is getting harder as time goes on. 

"Advertising and entertainment are ongoing costs worn by the committee to attract people for two days.”

Among the attractions that regularly feature at the show are the cooking and handcraft sections, school displays and the usual animal enclosures.

Mr Walkden said it remained an important showcase of two differing environments.

“It brings the country to the town and vice versa,” he said.

“There is a reciprocal relationship that exists, which is a big reason why people go. 

"It brings in all walks of life.”

Throughout the show’s rich history, there has been a significant financial aspect involved in its preparation.

Some of the costs associated with the running the event include renting the Showground; the use of utilities such as power and water; payment of gatekeepers; day and night security; and  the cleaning of the grounds during the day and at night after the gates close.

Mr Walkden said he would like to see more of a youth presence on the committee.

“It would be great if members of the younger generations got involved and came up with some fresh ideas on how to bring more people in,” he said.