Allora might be a small town but they really know how to stage a big event with their showgrounds the location of two days of wonderful celebrations of the contribution that heavy horses, mules, bullocks and other draught animals and pioneers made to the development of the Darling Downs.

However the Festival is more than just heavy horses with craft stalls, live music, food stalls of all varieties and just to add something really different a jousting contest by two fully armoured knights on horseback and lots more.

A variety of heritage demonstrations by blacksmiths, wheelwrights and farriers were warmly received by the crowds of people who flocked to their venues.

However, the focus always remains on the giant Clydesdales, Percherons, Gypsy Cobs and numerous other breeds all turned out in magnificent style a testament to their loving owners.

The organising committee of President Clint Kenny, Vice President John Polzin, Secretary Clare Gorwyn, Treasurer Kate Stewart and a band of many dedicated volunteers are to be congratulated.

This year’s festival will be hard to beat next year but the organisers are likely already thinking of new ideas.

See the full gallery in the issue.

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 20 March 2024.