The show will host its 164th outing at the end of next month – but they have put out a plea for those with business, trade and legal experience to get involved in keeping the event going.
Perthshire Agricultural Society’s new Chairman Jock Wilkie has called for fresh blood to join the board and help sustain one of the country’s premier agricultural shows.
Perth Show will stage its 164th annual outing on Friday, July 31st, and Saturday, August 1st, promising “something for everyone” in a two-day showcase of farming, produce, livestock, equestrian, crafts and entertainment.
And the top team assembled to ensure this year’s spectacular on Perth’s South Inch runs smoothly is already gearing up for the event.
“It’s really a year-long task to get ready for the annual Show,” said Jock, “but we really shift into top gear a couple of months ahead.
“I’m lucky to have a great team around me but a shortfall in directors means more onus is on fewer people.
“It would be great to welcome some new directors to boost the board and inject vigour, enthusiasm and new ideas.”
Perth Show is currently 10 short of its capacity of 40 directors and Jock stressed the Society did not restrict admission to those from a farming background, although more from the agricultural sector were always needed.
“We have directors with business and finance backgrounds as well as trade and legal experience,” he said. “Each brings something vital to the running of the Society and the Show and we welcome a rich and varied representation from all walks of life.”
Jock (41) owns Netherton Equestrian near Bridge of Earn but his family farmed at Longforgan and Aberargie, before branching out into haulage.
He and his wife Sarah run a livery yard and riding school at Netherton, where they stable more than 30 horses.
Jock has attended and loved Perth Show since he was a small boy, accompanying his father David who sat on the board of directors.
“It’s a real honour to be Chairman of Perth Show when it’s something that has been a part of your life – all your life,” he said. “To welcome thousands of people to the South Inch to see some of the finest livestock, riding talent, produce, craft and rural skills is a real privilege.
“We’re also focussing strongly this year on education, so youngsters – and adults – will have the chance to see rural skills in action and learn where their food comes from.
“Perth Show is a great chance for the city and county to come together to celebrate and acknowledge our agricultural industry and the part it plays in all our lives,” said Jock.
“The farming industry faces increasing challenges with rising costs, competitive markets and ever-changing rules, regulations and restrictions.
“For two days, Perth Show provides a release from the stresses and concerns of life and allows farmers to come together and enjoy the fruits of their labour.
Jock highlighted the diversity of trade stands and entertainments at this year’s event which would complement the showcase of some of the county’s (and beyond) premier livestock ranging from hulking prize bulls and giant heavy horses to pygmy goats and miniature donkeys.
“And with all-family entertainments ranging from giant tortoises, dog shows, children’s races, horseshoe hunts and bouncy castles to stalls, food festival, tractor football, mounted games, vintage tractors and pipe band, it’s shaping up to be two days worth marking in your diaries.”
Jock stressed the huge team effort that has gone into organising this 2026 event and he highlighted his “top team” of: Vice Chairman Tom Rust from Forestry and Land Scotland; Junior Vice Chairman Fraser Campbell, farm manager at Drummond Estate; and secretary Jen Leslie for pulling it together.
“We’re also hugely indebted to our Show sponsors including main sponsor Binn Group and key supporters Morris Leslie Group, EQ Chartered Accountants, Perth College UHI, Stewarts of Tayside and Netherton Equestrian,” said Jock.
“The costs of staging Perth Show are astronomical – and rising year on year – and we couldn’t hope to stage what is regarded as one of the best county shows in the country without sponsor support and an army of volunteers. We – and the thousands who flock through the gates on the day – owe them our thanks.”

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