Dozens of miniature miners scrambled through sawdust at the show’s junior big dig, where tags could be traded in for riches.
Balclutha boy Jacob Zwies (7) had his eyes set on wealth.
"I want the tractor!" he yelled, before they were set loose.
Sawdust stuck to the sun-blocked arms of the children as they dug for treasures.Dreams were dashed and tears flowed as some claims offered nothing but a measly mint chew.
Jacob, however, was able to retire wealthy.
Not only did he win his beloved tractor, but multiple other riches from Play-Doh to Hot Wheels.
Since last year the event has also housed the Roxburgh Rotary Classic Car Show.
After stepping out of a 1960 Thunderbird, Hampden boy Josh Beattie admitted he was the main car lover in his family.
"The Camaro is probably my favourite here. I like the look of them. How flash and shiny they are."
Over on the racecourse, practical challenges awaited the eight finalists for the Otago-Southland New Zealand Young Farmer regional finals.
Event secretary Dinah Wales said each event helped to attract an attendance of 3000.
This was about double the average year, partly due to the young farmer competition.
The two-day show also had equestrian events, speed shearing, home crafts and a pet parade.The big dig was an iconic part of the show, she said.‘‘It’s been going as long as I can remember. I think some other shows have them, too.’’It is the second year the show has been held at the Roxburgh Racecourse, and the committee would discuss whether it would still be a good fit for next year. ‘‘We’ve had such beautiful weather, and no wind, which is good because it’s not good for the horses. It’s definitely one of Roxburgh’s biggest days, if not the biggest.’’jono.edwards@odt.co.nz
