Whittlesea Show 2008

Debbie and I had attended an organizing meeting at Whittlesea a few weeks prior to the show and a
new layout for all exhibitors had been worked out. We were really looking forward to the show. The reality
was not quite as we had hoped. Our location was better than last year but it will have to be improved for
next years 150^th Anniversary of the Whittlesea Show.

When we arrived the rabbit club had already set up but hadn’t left an adequate space on one side for the
public to walk comfortably between their space and ours so they had to move some trestles. We hadn’t
been allowed enough space behind our tables to put our chairs so we were squashed and having to turn
side on to pass members. The judging table was set so the public could see what was going on but could not
annoy the judge which was good.

We had a great membership turn out with an excellent public turnout also. As I always say the positive
reaction from the public these days is encouraging that what we are doing is working. It has taken quite
a few years to change people’s perception of pet rats but it has been worth the effort.

As usual all hands were on deck to set up the display. This year’s display was a trial the 150^th anniversary
when we have to pull out all the stops and reproduce an equal to our Royal Melbourne Show display. The
pavilion staff had strung a wire against the back wall for brag sheets and our new large banner, as a back
drop, looked great and drew people to our display. I heard a rumour that our pavilion would win the
“Best Pavilion” award this year.

The photographs, as always, were very popular. Poor Anne called for assistance to keep up with the printing
and taking photos. Our new merchandise and Rebecca’s jewellery on a lovely little stand add a professional
look and colour to this area of our display.

Our members and their ratties are always willing to “Meet & Greet”, talking endlessly about the virtues of
pet rats and children are curious wanting to hold a rat. Their reactions to whiskers and claws are interesting
and quite often funny. Our smile muscles are tired by the end of the day.

During the day Debbie and I had a constructive talk to the head rabbit person, John. He could see we were
struggling with our area and we all decided how things will be different next year. It is great when co exhibitors
can get together and discuss things without animosity and achieve a positive outcome to everyone’s benefit.

Except for the small problem of lack of walking space we had a great day. The hot weather seemed to hold off
until just before we were ready to pack up so we were not too stressed and squirty water bottles kept the
ratties busy drying themselves off so they didn’t have time to think about being hot.

Thanks to the Whittelsea committee and thanks to members for making a memorable Whittlesea Show 2008.