All Bark and Plenty of Bite: Eudunda's 2025 'Man's Best Friend' Show Brings the Fun This Sunday

The community of Eudunda is buzzing with excitement ahead of its much-loved annual show, set to take place this Sunday, November 9, at Eudunda Oval.

Embracing the theme of “Man’s Best Friend" this year, the 127th annual show promises to celebrate all things canine – from loyal working dogs to dashing dachshunds – while bringing the community together for a day of family fun and community spirit.

Eudunda Show Committee Junior Vice President and Social Media Coordinator Kahlia Jenke, said preparations were well underway and enthusiasm was high just days away from the event.

“We’re flat out, as you can well imagine, trying to put an event together,” Ms Jenke said.

“Everything seems to be coming along well. We’ve got entries coming through, which is nice, and there’s still 24 hours left for most sections before they close – so it’s an exciting time.”

Following weeks of wild weather in South Australian, Ms Jenke said organisers are hopeful the wind and rain might stay away Sunday.

“Touch wood, if the weather reports are correct, it looks like it’s going to be a pretty good day – 18 degrees, and hopefully the wind stays away,” Ms Jenke said. “All our fingers and toes are crossed for a nice day.”

Each year, the show committee selects a different theme to incorporate, giving organisers and show-goers something new to experience and celebrate. Ms Jenke said she feels its an element of the show that set Eudunda's event apart from others across the state.

"We're probably a bit unique in that way, I don't know many shows that feature a topic every year," Ms Jenke said.

“Last year was Birds of a Feather, which tied in with the local art festival, and this year it just came about through a bit of a chat at one of our meetings. Everyone loved the idea of celebrating dogs and the bond they share with people, so we ran with it.”

This year’s dog-themed attractions are numerous and varied.

“We’ve got a Dachshund Muster happening, a Dachshund Dash, and The Dog Jumping returning,” Ms Jenke said.

“Dog Yard Trials are being held for the first time, and we’ll also be launching the Human Dog Barking competition, renamed the Budgie Schiller Shout in memory of Budgie Schiller, who was a great contributor to our community and a supporter of our show."

"Our dachshund coordinator has mentioned that 50 dachshunds have expressed their interest in attending on Sunday, so there’s going to be dogs everywhere, I think.”

Other highlights include Connor Hogan’s motor trials demonstrations, the speed shearing competition, the Army Band, the Gustaf Trail for children, the Merino Young Judges and Young Hoggets competitions, the Farm Tech Farm Fit Farmers Challenge, and Pedal Power Shearing in the evening.

Beyond the competitions, Ms Jenke said the heart of the Eudunda Show is its community spirit.

“It’s a day for everyone to have a yarn, a smile, and a bit of a laugh,” she said. “The kids running around and enjoying themselves – it’s what makes the day. It doesn’t matter what might be going on at home, everyone just comes together to celebrate a bit of fun and community pride.”

Gates open at 9:30 a.m., with cash and card facilities available. Visitors are encouraged to check the show’s website and Facebook page for the full program and updates in the lead-up to the event.