Show society president James Harris said his committee was “extremely pleased” with the 2009 event which returned gate takings up by nearly 20 per cent compared with the 2007 event.

Despite torrential downpours across the region on Saturday, Stroud’s showground remained dry until Saturday evening.

“Luck was definitely on our side with the weather,” Mr Harris said.

“The rain started just as the demolition derby was getting uder way, but n the end I think it just added to the thrills and spills.”

Mr Harris said entries were strong in most events apart from the stud cattle, bull riding and the ute muster – all of which were in direct competion for entries with the Sydney Royal Show.

“Considering we were running directly against the Royal in all those events, we were really happy with the numbers we attracted.”

“Even some of our committee members can’t actually be here for the event as they have to go down to the Royal, so it can be a problem for us.”

Mr Harris described the inclusion of the Stroud Cattle Dog Trials, normally held as a stand alone event in August, as a “fabulous success.”

“The dogs will definitely be back next year,” he said.

Horse numbers were up on previous years, but produce entries were down slightly due to unfavourable seasonal conditions.

Mr Harris said the committee will consider including motorbikes events in next year’s main ring line-up.

‘We are aiming to provide non-stop entertainment for families throughout the show,” he said.