Message from the President: September 2026

In other positive news, the Board is delighted to welcome Mr Lachlan Barclay as an Elected non-executive Director to our organisation following our 2026 AGM. Lachlan is a fourth-generation farmer and business leader from south-west Victoria, with extensive experience in governance, strategic leadership and industry advocacy. Lachlan is Co-Owner and Managing Director of Mingawalla Ag, and also serves on the Board of Marcus Oldham College. 

I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank Darrin Grimsey who stepped off the Board at the 2026 AGM. Darrin has been on the Board since April of 2015 and his experience and wise counsel has been highly valued. On behalf of the Board, I sincerely thank Darrin for his significant contribution to Melbourne Royal over the past 11 years.

As you are aware, Brad Jenkins officially stood down as Chief Executive on 31 August and on behalf of the Board, staff and the wider Melbourne Royal community, I thank Brad for his incredible contribution since joining the organisation in 2008, and particularly the last seven years as Chief Executive.

Brad’s commitment, passion and pride for our organisation, events and people is widely known and appreciated, which has been the catalyst in elevating Melbourne Royal’s reputation and brand as a ‘Cultivator of Happiness’ under his leadership. 

We are thrilled that Brad has agreed to remain involved with our organisation and share his wealth of experience and knowledge in supporting us through the transition period, and particularly the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show. 

As we count down to the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show to be held from Thursday 24 September to Sunday 4 October, I want to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge:

• our Show Competitive Section Committees, who generously give their time, expertise and support to assist the Melbourne Royal team maximise the appeal and success of our agricultural and leisure competitions. A special mention to the respective Committee Chairs: David Bolton (Beef Cattle), Mathew Hill (Sheep), Malcolm Sanders OAM (Art, Craft & Cookery), Michael Holmes (Poultry), Gael Wilcock (Dogs), Bernie Hearn (Horses), Dr Roger Wilkinson (Fleece), Colleen Lazenby (Heritage), and Andrew Spierings (Emerging Leaders).

• all those who have entered a competition this year and wish all exhibitors and competitors the best of luck in their pursuit of winning a coveted Melbourne Royal Blue Ribbon in their respective competitions including Livestock, Horses in Action, All-Breeds Championship Dogs, Fleece, Woodchopping and Art, Craft and Cookery.

• Volunteers who are at the heart of the Melbourne Royal Show and we are very appreciative of the community interest and support that we have received from people keen to volunteer this year. To everyone who has already applied, thank you! Your willingness to give your time, energy and enthusiasm helps make the Melbourne Royal Show such a special event for our community.

• Melbourne Royal members. Melbourne Royal membership is the best-value way to experience the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show. We thank all our members for their support this year and we trust you will enjoy great value and benefit from your Melbourne Royal membership. If you’re not already a Melbourne Royal member, there is still time for you to join. As a valued Melbourne Royal member, you can enjoy complimentary admission for you and a guest to the 11 days of Show, as well as a variety of unique privileges and benefits. To join today and for more details, visit melbourneroyal.com.au or alternatively, telephone 03 9281 7444.

We invite all Victorians to come to the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show with family and friends to see the thousands of animals and discover the playful new attractions and farm experiences; stay for the food delights, carnival rides, spectacular entertainment and fireworks; and leave with showbags in hand, a huge smile and a lifetime of wonderful memories. For tickets and more details about the exciting program for this year’s Show, visit royalshow.com.au.

Thank you for your ongoing interest and involvement with our organisation and we look forward to welcoming you to the 2026 Melbourne Royal Show and trust you have an enjoyable experience.

Matt Coleman OAM

President