The 102nd annual event drew about 2000 people from throughout the state to enjoy the best of the West in the Exeter Showgrounds.

The rain held off until late in the day prompting organisers tout the event as a success.

‘‘‘It was a little bit down because of the weather and the activities around the North of the state but we’re very happy,’’ show secretary Sharon Hjort said.

‘‘It was a really good day.’’

Ms Hjort said it was particularly pleasing to note that participation in the home industries had increased by 200 entries.

Gravelly Beach man James Riley was one entrant left grinning after his giant onions were awarded first, second and third in the largest onion category.

The whopping veggies weighed up to two kilograms each.

‘‘They’re that big it brings tears to your eyes,’’ Mr Riley said.

‘‘At the end of the day the answer lies in the soil.

‘‘You plant on the shortest day of the year and you pick on the longest day of the year.

‘‘I’m hoping to produce a three to four foot carrot next year.’’

He said the biggest pleasure he received was passing the vegetables on to friends and neighbours.

Ulverstone’s All About Reptiles held several popular snake demonstrations in the animal nursery.

All things slithery could be found in the organisation’s enclosure.

Worker Racquel Thow said the group focused on snake education and first aid.

More cuddly were the hordes of mice, piglets, goats and puppies from Westbury’s Shimmia Park.

Small children flocked to pat the sweet-natured animals or participate in the variety of free activities including nail painting and crafts.

Further afield were traditional activities including wood chopping and equestrian events.

Ms Hjort said organisers looked forward to an even better show next year.

‘‘We’re very pleased with the crowds ... all the money will go back into the showgrounds - we’ll be here again next year.’’