03/10/2026
THE MURTOA COMMUNITY CONTINUES TO IMPRESS
There are many communities that inspire, but Murtoa continues to stand out.
What promised to be a huge Murtoa Big Weekend was significantly disrupted by more than 40mm of rain. Yet despite the wet weather, the community’s spirit was impossible to wash away.
Yesterday’s Murtoa Show went ahead in challenging conditions. The ground was soaked, but food vendors, market stalls and show rides still arrived—because, as they say, the show must go on. Local volunteers were joined by volunteers from neighbouring towns to help make the day happen; a wonderful example of communities working together when it matters most.
Locals and visitors pulled on their gumboots, threw on their hoodies and ventured out to support the show. Food vendors and stallholders remained positive and upbeat, offering everything from ice cream to handmade local pasta despite the rain falling around them.
Even the gate volunteers kept smiling, warmly asking, “Are you coming back?” It would not have been easy, but their positivity said everything about the people behind this event.
Today brought further disappointment with the cancellation of the Murtoa/Marma Racing Club, the Murtoa The Follio Property Podcast Murtoa Cup. While the weather had been closely monitored in the lead-up, it was still disappointing news for organisers, businesses and everyone looking forward to a big day at the races.
But once again, Murtoa found a way. Within hours, the community came together at the Showgrounds Community Centre for an impromptu afternoon catch-up. Despite more rain, around 100 people came along to connect with friends, support local businesses and make the most of a difficult situation. We were grateful to be there and to serve our dumplings as part of the afternoon.
Through every challenge, Murtoa has shown what a strong community can do: supporting the show, creating a last-minute event, backing local businesses and ensuring people still had a reason to come together.
Well done, Murtoa. Well done.