During a routine inspection of the cattle on their property, cattle ticks were discovered by an immediate neighbour of the Bonalbo Showgrounds. The relevant authorities notified the managers of the Showgrounds. Cattle ticks are considered to be the most serious external parasite of cattle in Australia. The tick can carry the disease ‘tick fever’, which can kill cattle and has the potential to cause significant economic damage to the beef cattle and dairy industries of NSW. Controlling and eradicating cattle ticks is extremely important to the viability of the cattle industry in north-eastern NSW, and there are strict controls for the movement of stock from infected and adjoining holdings.
Whilst there are processes that would allow for livestock and equine events to be held on the Showgrounds, there are costs and complexities involved, and there remains an element of risk. The cattle ticks that have been found are showing signs of resistance to current control practices.
With this in mind, and given the Bonalbo Show is under six weeks away, the Show Committee decided to cancel the 2025 show in the best interests of its exhibitors, donors and the local cattle industry. As the control program progresses the committee will consider the possibility of holding an event depending on the circumstances and in consultation with the Department of Primary Industries.
2026 Bonalbo Show: 17 & 18 April
2027 Bonalbo Show: 9 & 10 April