The families who pioneered the State of Western Australia also founded the Royal Agricultural Society, which was established in 1831. In its early years, the Society’s meetings were held monthly at Guildford Inn and were usually attended by the Governor of Western Australia, Sir James Stirling. Later the meeting place became the Woodbridge Hotel. The Society still enjoys the patronage and active support of the Governor of Western Australia.

On January 3, 1834, at a historic meeting of the Society, it was decided to hold an annual show – this show came to be known as the “Fair and Cattle Show”. The first Fair and Cattle Show was held on November 7, 1834. In 1890, the Governor advised that the Queen had granted permission for the Society to assume the title of the “Royal Agricultural Society” (RASWA).

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The Claremont showgrounds became the home to the annual Perth Royal show when moving from its original site in Guildford back in 1905. The arena has been hosted to a number of different sporting interest over the years with it being the headquarters for Speedway (1927 until 2000) and WAFL football fixtures. After the exit of the speedway, the main arena underwent a $1.8 million re-development creating a more appealing venue. This included the speedway track being removed and limestone terracing put in place for more appeal and spectator comfort.

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It is unclear when Standardbreds were introduced to the Breed program of the Royal but it wouldn’t be until 2008 that the gelding exhibits would be permitted to challenge the Stallion and Mare for the overall Supreme Exhibit. In recent years, with the involvement of OTTWA supporting the two racing codes, we are very fortunate to have the biggest prize money pool for our Supreme Led and Ridden horses of any breed at this event. It really is a wonderful sight seeing the breed on the main arena at a time of the year when their coats and overall condition is ultimately at ones best.

Enjoy our results and photo galleries of present and past Champions from an event steeped in Royalty and so much history.