The Perth Royal Show showcased a vibrant mix of culinary talent and animal competitions on September 27, 2023. Among the highlights was renowned news presenter Susannah Carr, who captivated audiences with her cooking demonstration, drawing parallels to popular cooking shows.
During the event, Carr participated in a challenge where she had to create a dish using a mystery box of ingredients. The box contained a potato, chicken, lime, ricotta, onion, paprika, and corn. Carr expertly combined these items to prepare a dish she named “Royal Show Bonanza.” Her creation featured chicken seasoned with paprika, a baked stuffed potato filled with ricotta, lime zest, and onion, accompanied by a fresh salsa made from corn, raw onion, and lime juice.
“It was a very strange dish because I really didn’t know what the ingredients were going to be. Some of them worked together, and some of them didn’t,” Carr remarked. Despite the uncertainty, she expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the audience seemed to enjoy the flavors.
Carr shared that her passion for cooking began in her teenage years and has remained a significant part of her life. She reminisced about her childhood visits to the Royal Show, stating, “It’s evolved over the years, but it’s still something that’s pretty much on everybody’s calendar, so may it reign.”
Equestrian Displays and Canine Competitions
While Carr entertained culinary enthusiasts, others delighted in the equestrian shows and dog competitions. Louise Crosbie, owner of Horsewest, has been showcasing spectacular horse demonstrations at the Perth Royal Show for four years. Her performances include a tribute to Dolly Parton that attracts many attendees each evening. “I’ve always loved horses. My mum got into horses when she was 50; I wasn’t from a ‘horsey’ family,” Crosbie explained.
In the Pawvilion, a variety of adorable dogs competed for top honors. Among them were two long-haired dachshunds: two-month-old Lucifer and eight-month-old Levi. Their owner, Margaret Patterson, has been involved in dog shows for 50 years and has participated in the Perth Royal Show for 40 years. “I just went to a dog show one day and fell in love with it,” she stated.
Lucifer won the dog challenge, earning the title of “best dog,” while Levi secured the runner-up position as “best breed.” Patterson expressed her joy about Lucifer’s achievement, saying, “I’m thrilled to bits with him being the youngest one here, and he got the dog challenge. That’s terrific.”
She added that dachshunds are known for their friendly temperament and often serve as therapy dogs in nursing homes.
Family Fun and Show Highlights
The event was not only about cooking and competitions; it also featured various show bags and market stalls, making it a family-friendly environment. Kaylee Thornton brought her three-year-old daughter, Myla, to the show for the second consecutive year. Thornton highlighted Myla’s excitement for the bubbles, stating, “We came last year as well, and she (Myla) pestered everyone with her bubbles then too; it’s her favourite thing.”
The Perth Royal Show continues to be a cherished tradition for many families, blending culinary arts, animal exhibitions, and delightful activities, ensuring that it remains a significant event on the calendar. The combination of talent, competition, and family enjoyment makes it a memorable occasion for all who attend.
