Now in its 11th year, the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular happens over the weekend of June 17 and 18 at Boonah. It is the richest Clydesdale Show in the Southern Hemisphere, where the grand champions of the breed are judged, the heritage of the breed is shared, and the history of the breed in Australia is toasted. It is a breed that in 2023 is listed as ‘vulnerable’ internationally. From tiny Shetland ponies to the towering Shire horses, all Clydesdales great and small will celebrated over the weekend.
The full schedule of Clydesdale competition takes place in the main arena, while rare trades are showcased including harness making, blacksmithing, wheelwrights, horse-drawn demonstrations and driving displays, whip plaiting and more. Additional highlights include the Queensland Whip Cracking Championships, World Billy Boiling Championships, wood chopping, working dog displays, Friesian Horse Troupe performances, artisan coopering and bush poetry.
In tribute to the Scottish descendants who moved to the region and brought with them their beloved Clydesdale, the event includes a stirring massing of Pipes and Drums, Calling of the Clans, the Clydesdale and Clan class and traditional Scottish caber tossing. There will be haggis burgers, a whiskey bar and Scots are encouraged to attend in their clan kilts!
It’s all happening at the Boonah Showgrounds from 8am until late both days.
This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 14 June 2023.
