Author’s Note

This book would not have been possible without the generous support, goodwill and enthusiasm of its two major sponsors – the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society of South Australia and the Agricultural Societies Council of South Australia.

I would also like to thank the state’s country show societies for their unflagging support and encouragement in helping identify local cooks, and source information and illustrations. Many hundreds of volunteers willingly donate their energy and time to organise outstanding events, despite increasing pressures and often diminishing resources, and to keep alive a precious tradition that has contributed so much to the rich tapestry of community life in South Australia.