- Published:
- Thursday 25 September 2025 at 2:51 pm
The Melbourne Royal Show began in 1848 as a small ploughing contest run by the Moonee Ponds Farmers' Society. Nearly 180 years later, it has grown into something much bigger.
Established to celebrate agriculture, the show quickly became a highlight of Victoria’s calendar. It drew crowds with livestock competitions, equestrian events, woodchopping and sheep shearing.
Searching for “Royal Show” using Public Record Office Victoria’s (PROV)’s Photowall(opens in a new window) feature, we discovered a collection of images from the 1930s, 1950s and 1960s that capture the show’s early spirit. These photographs showcase prize-winning cattle and horses, popular events and the excitement of a day out.
The Art, Craft & Cookery Competition was first introduced in 1911. The contest’s categories included toy and doll making, pottery and wedding cakes.
One of the most enduring creations of the Melbourne Royal Show is the showbag – a uniquely Australian invention. Originally called ‘sample bags’, these featured new product samples from local manufacturers.
By the 1960s, the term ‘showbag’ was in popular use, and the range expanded. From just 42 bags, today’s visitors can now choose from more than 400 varieties.
While animals remain at the heart of the show, today’s program offers far more. Across 11 days, visitors can enjoy:
- rides
- food and drink
- live performances
- agricultural competitions
- and, of course, the 400+ types of showbags!
For those wanting a deeper dive into the past, the Melbourne Royal Show’s legacy can be accessed through PROV’s Photowall and the Melbourne Royal Virtual Museum.
The Melbourne Royal Show returns this year from 25 September to 5 October. To find out more, visit its website.
PROV is part of the Department of Government Services.
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