With record setting gates, packed grandstands and long lines at attractions, success is the only word which can be used to describe the Dauphin Agricultural Society’s 130th Fair and Exhibition, June 29 to July 2.

“It’s been a great turnout here so far. We’ve had some pretty record days at the gates and it’s great to see the grounds packed with lots of people,” ag society president Teren Stykalo said. “You know we have the national stock dog show here and that brings lots of people in from all over western Canada. So it’s been great to see all the action here this weekend.”

Other attractions included numerous 4-H events, workshops, competitions and sales, along with multiple heavy and light horse classes, the small animal display, Kids Play Zone, Home Living Section, All About Science Show, Kids Pedal Tractor Pull, Extreme Dog Stunt Show, numerous vendors and, of course, the Select Shows midway.

“It’s just a good old-fashioned Fair people want to come out they want to do stuff around the community,” Stykalo said, adding it is about more than just the attractions which keep people coming back year after year. “They want the camaraderie. They want to see some stuff, some new stuff here and, of course, the midway is always a big draw. But we have lots of support from around the community, whether it’s businesses or people. Putting on big volunteer events and people want to be a part of that and they like to support it. So it makes a big difference when you have a big crew of volunteers. Everybody knows somebody who wants to come and support them and all of a sudden it’s a big draw to our fair.”

Despite the success of the fair year after year, Stykalo said ag society directors are always looking for way to improve.

“I think there’s always a forward Vision at some point. Of course it’s kind of hard to see in the blur of these three days, but we’re always looking at what’s going to be the next thing that people want to come back and see,” he said, adding he can’t thank the public, sponsors and the volunteers enough for their support.

“Because ultimately, at the end of the day, we want people to come back to the fair. We want them to have fun. We want them to look forward to next year even though it’s a whole year away. We want people to be excited to come back for next year.”

And so there will always be a next year, Stykalo encourages anyone with ideas or suggestions to get involved.

“We’re always looking for people to just come and show support and even if you’re willing and you want to volunteer, we’re always looking for volunteers,” Stykalo said. “And that’s probably the best way. If you have a good idea, come on the board and let’s talk about it and we’ll put some sort of plan to action.”