ALBION PARK SHOWGROUND PAVILION COMMEMORATIVELY NAMED AFTER DOUGLAS & DAPHNE BLOW

Albion Park Showground pavilion will be commemoratively named in honour of the contribution of local couple, Douglas and Daphne Blow.

Mr and Mrs Blow were exhibitors and volunteers, working tirelessly to contribute to the Albion Park Show over many decades.

The couple’s family, members of the Albion Park Show Society and Shellharbour City Council representatives will be attending the official opening this Saturday 20 January.

The Albion Park Show Society’s request, which was unanimously supported by Shellharbour City Council, detailed Mr and Mrs Blow’s long-term association with the show, an event that has been held at Albion Park Showground since 1888.

The couple, who passed away in the early 2000s, exhibited in the Albion Park Show for more than 70 years. Between them they had exhibits in almost every category including vegetables, pot plants, cooking, flowers and floral art. In 1997 they were recognised as Joint Citizens of the Year for assisting charities and fundraising.

Mr Blow was a member of the Albion Park Show Committee from 1964 to 1996 and became an Honorary Committee member until his death in 2002. He won state competitions for his skill in growing maize, potatoes and vegetables and was awarded the ‘Most Successful Exhibitor’ at the Sydney Royal Easter Show on five occasions.

Mrs Blow’s involvement with Albion Park Show saw her exhibit, judge and steward between 1966 and 1999. During her time as a member of the Albion Park Red Cross, Mrs Blow organised and catered for farm sales, auctions and community events such as the Marshall Mount dances.

Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said that the couple’s contribution to the Albion Park Show and to their community was extraordinary.

“Mr and Mrs Blow personified the community spirit that is typical of our city. They got involved, inspired others and supported the endeavours of the Albion Park Show, contributing to its ongoing success,” Mayor Homer said.

“With the Albion Park Show being held this weekend, the timing of the commemorative naming in recognition of the couple’s contribution is lovely,” he said.