The countdown is on for the annual Hawkesbury Show, with only 44 sleeps to go until gates at the Clarendon showground open for fun, festivity and fairy floss.

The 2010 Hawkesbury Showgirl Candice Eyles has been a regular visitor to the show since she was young, but this year she will be wearing a different hat.

“I’ve competed in the horse events most years,” she said.

“It’ll be great to see the show from a different angle this year.”

The Cattai resident has been getting in some preparation for the event ahead, learning about different aspects of the show, including getting a few lessons from head cooking steward Barb-

ara Crook.

“Barbara’s been showing me how much work each of the cooks will put into producing their entries,” she said.

“I’m in awe of how much time and energy they put into it. It’s great.”

Running from April 23 to April 25, the Hawkesbury Show promises to be action-packed with all the family favourites set to return to the main arena.

The thrill-a-minute Extreme Motocross riders and their death-defying stunts will wow audiences on Friday and Saturday nights, while the unbreakable Hilux Heroes are in form and ready to showcase some amazing driving skills.

New to the main arena will be the Kachan School of Tumbling, which will see dozens of flexible acrobats perform a series of rolls, jumps, flips, twists and turns with extreme precision.

The Rural Fire Service’s junior brigades will battle out for supremacy and the chance to be named top young team in the proficiency heats and finals. Come and cheer on your local team to victory.

Sideshow alley promises to deliver a whirlwind of entertainment, games and rides to keep you busy all day long, but if you’re feeling like a relaxing stroll, check out the stalls, displays and information sessions on offer around the showground.

Agriculture is the heart of any local show and there’s nothing different at Hawke-

sbury.

Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas, dogs, cats and chickens are just some of the animals vying for a blue ribbon in a variety of classes, while inside the pavilion farmers have tendered their best fruit, vegetables and flowers for scrutiny by discerning judges.

Entries are now open across all categories, with schedules and entry forms available for download at www.hawkesburyshow.com.au

For more information visit the website or call 4577 3591.