The bushfires and the ongoing drought has forced the cancellation of 15 country shows from 175 across the state, with majority on the south coast.

Last year, Kempsey Showground was allocated $109,178 for maintenance on its buildings, as part of a $678,000 grant by the NSW Government in the Oxley electorate.

Kempsey Show Society president Donna Clarke said the committee hopes the event will be a time for the community to come together, after a difficult period caused by Mother Nature.

The committee is aiming to make this year's show a great one and have added some entries to its program.

Donna recognised that it was unfortunate many shows across the state have had to cancel their shows or cut back on their programs.

She's expecting some livestock numbers for the show might be down from previous shows, including beef and goats.

This is due to some properties in the Macleay and other regions being impacted by fires and drought.

The show is adding in a sheep competition in this year's program, for something different to the 2020 schedule.

Donna said hopefully there will also be an animal farm, which will be a big draw card for children and families.

The committee is appealing for some more stewards to come onboard and help with the running of the event.

For more information about the show, or to contact the committee, please visit https://www.kempseyshow.com.au/ or visit the event's Facebook page.

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