The Whittlesea Fair
An article reviewing the first Whittlesea Show in 1859. Article published in The Age on 7 May 1859.
We have received the following, report of the first Fair held at Whittlesea, for the sale of horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, dairy produce, fruits and vegetables, which was held on Tuesday, there 3rd instance, and seems to have, far exceeded the most sanguine expectations of the promoters.
The number and quality of the stock brought forward were worthy of the spirit of the Upper Plenty farmers. But it was evident from the first that there would be a lack of buyers. It might be supposed that Melbourne dealers would always meet with a good supply of country produce in this locality, and no doubt many a bargain might have been made with advantage on Tuesday last. With horses the fair was well filled, only few, however, changed hands. The offers made were considerably below the market value, and the holders were indisposed to accept them. A large mob of fat cattle was disposed of on very reasonable terms, and a fair amount of business done in working bullocks and steers. There was a good demand for quiet milky cows with calves at foot. The supply was moderate, the prices realised ranging from £10 to £14. The number of sheep was very limited, that of pigs not quite so much so, but owners were determined, to keep up prices, and very few changed hands. Very few fowls were sent in. A few fine specimens met with a steady sale. No business was done in grain and hay for want of buyers. Potatoes were plentiful, at from £2 to £3 10s.
During the early part of the day a most insufferable dullness prevailed, it being as late as ten o’clock before the real business commenced, an hour at which most of the cattle would have been disposed of at many of the old country fairs. At the close several lots were sold by auction by Mr C. Buryell. The ‘Cheap John’ fraternity mustered in good numbers and with imposing articles, and a little “fine talk,” appeared to drive a profitable business.
The amusements were characteristic of the Australian bush. No Wombwell’s menagerie – no stately tread or thread-worn jokes of the gaudy showman – no incessant din of rival music, to wit, bagpipes, cymbals, street organs of the loudest tone, cracked trumpets, and other horrors— no swing-boats or “merry – go – rounds, ” on which the little “dears” could ride’ for a half- penny; no Pablo Fanqua equestrians ; but it must be questioned whether that well known horseman could produce anything in the side saddle equal to our dashing bush ladies, who attended in strong force; and as the race-course was at hand they had an opportunity of displaying their skill. The gentlemen too contributed materially to the day’s amusements by several creditable racers.
