History
The first show was in January 1822, in the Old Market Place, just in front of the present State Parliament House. The venue of the Royal Hobart Show has varied over the past 184 years and has included Salamanca Place, Bridgewater, New Town, Tattersalls Park and even the Hobart Town Hall.
In 1903, the Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania purchased the 40 acres (160,000 m2) of bushland then known as the “Elwick Knoll” at a cost of ₤2525. The following year the first Show was held at its current location, the Elwick Showground. In 1922 His Majesty King George V approved the granting of the prefix ‘Royal’ to the Society and in turn became known as The Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania.
A $4 million redevelopment of the Showgrounds took place in 1980 and provided Pacing and Greyhound Racing facilities, an upgraded arena suitable for a variety of events, and the enclosed Grandstand and Amenities building which includes bars, restaurants, betting hall, meeting rooms and offices. From 2004-2008, Greyhound and Pacing facilities have been merged with Thoroughbread Racing at Elwick Racecourse, just down the road.
Read more about this topic: Royal Hobart Showground
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