IT'S been a tough year for many regional shows, including our own in the Upper Hunter.
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And, even though the area's showpiece event failed to take place in March, due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, organisers still found some positives amid the doom and gloom.
"There's not much you can say," Upper Hunter Show Society (UHSS) president Keith Googe said.
"Just when we thought we were on top of things, after making changes to the program courtesy of the drought, we were hit with COVID-19.
"In fact, a lot of things got frozen in time.
"But, the setback has also opened our eyes to new possibilities and ideas.
"We'll now think about alternate entertainment - and embrace it for 2021."
The UHSS gained plenty of comfort from its patient financial supporters, too, while recognising the efforts of the 2020 Upper Hunter Showgirl entrants.
Denman's Ally Morrison was named the overall winner from runner-up Rolanda Clout-Collins (Kars Springs), Yasmin Jimmieson (Muswellbrook) and Kaitlyn Vincent (Scone).
In the Teen Showgirl section, Scone's Katie Sutcliffe - also awarded People's Choice - prevailed from Singleton's Emily May.
"Thankfully, we were able to present the girls with their sashes and flowers," Mr Googe said.
"It was also a great opportunity to meet and chat with them; giving the entrants a tiny piece of the [Showgirl] experience.
"However, I'd really like to thank our sponsors (Mangoola, Muswellbrook RSL Club, Chocolate and Moss Florist, Finders Keepers and healthSAVE Muswellbrook Pharmacy) for hanging in there during the current climate.
"It means so much to the UHSS.
"This morning's informal gathering was just our way of expressing our gratitude to everyone."