SPENDING $999 on a showbag may seem a bit rich. But all it takes is $1 to make a kid happy at this year's Royal Melbourne show -- even a big one.
Pint-sized Joseph Romero, 4, of Moonee Ponds, was all smiles as he tucked into his chocky-filled Blinky Bill bag yesterday. For $1, Joseph got to enjoy five candy-filled chocolates and a lollipop.
And he didn't even blink at the $999 showbag Garrath Hardiman, 21, was checking out -- the most expensive in the show's history.
Although Garrath had his eye on Joseph's $1 bag of tasty treats, he was still blown away at the contents of the Grand Ridge Brewery's Beer Party Showbag.
For a cool $999, cashed-up beer lovers can tuck into the creme-de-la-creme of showbags and experience the ultimate liquid amber getaway.
The goodies, worth just shy of $2000, include three nights at a Grand Ridge Manor five-bedroom house with breakfast, dinner for two at the brewery restaurant, a beer tasting and a six-pack of the highly honoured beers.
Also inside is a baseball cap, a bar runner, discount vouchers for the restaurant and accommodation at Grand Ridge, and discounts on hair products, Legends Cue Centre and on DJ and staging equipment hire.
"It's the best shout you could ever give someone," said Grand Ridge owner Eric Walters. "It's more than just beer, it's the ultimate getaway and indulgence package. You can bring friends, have a party and experience Gippsland."
See the announcement on Page 26 of the print edition of the Herald Sun for more information on the show and don't miss our Official Royal Melbourne Show Guide liftout today.
Extreme off-road action events have been added to the Royal Melbourne Show program to replace the equestrian program, cancelled because of the equine influenza crisis.
Five sessions of 4x4 off-road adventure trials will be staged with a backdrop provided by a spectacular laser and fireworks show.
Go to www.royalshow.com.au for program updates.
The show runs from September 20 to 30.
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