The dairy farmer from Deloraine has not missed a show since 1982. And though his son is now doing most of the exhibiting, he does not plan to stop attending any time soon.

"[My] three kids all grew up doing it," Mr Smith said among the bales of hay being spread across a section of the cattle pavilion floor. "My daughter's a vet in Victoria - she's flying home for the day because it's what we do as a family."

The show moving away from its traditional three day format last year has been a blessing for the many exhibitors who will bring animals and livestock of all shapes and sizes.

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While Mr Smith was helping preparations at the Launceston Showground, his son was preparing his cattle and farm for the few days he will spend in the city.

"Now it is a one day show it makes it easier for people to get away," he said. Though that time away was also once a welcome break.

"For many years [when] I only had a small farm ... it was my only week's holiday for the year," he laughed.

Show organisers are hoping up to 10,000 could come through the gates to experience the exhibitions, entertainment, food and fireworks from 9am Thursday.

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