The Kelmscott community is reeling from a shocking bout of intense antisocial behaviour on the second day of the annual Kelmscott Agricultural Show.
On Saturday 17 October, the show organisers made the difficult decision to close the gates early, as a result of repeated fights throughout the day between groups of youths on the grounds at Rushton Park.
The event, having run for more than 100 years, and hosting notable features and events like carnival games, show bags, rides, livestock showcases and log chopping, made the decision for the first time in its recent history.
With a large number of youths attempting to force entry onto the showgrounds, police were called onto the scene in the afternoon.
Kelmscott Agricultural Society president Daryl Dawes emphasised that it was not a sudden event, as the fights had increased in frequency throughout the day, though the tipping point was the attempt at a forced entry by 50 to 70 youths. A lockdown was then implemented at 5pm.
Event security moved quickly to protect patrons, exhibitors and volunteers inside the grounds.
The gates were closed to further entry, while patrons already inside the Showgrounds were allowed to leave.
“Over the day we had some issues with youth coming in and causing fights on the grounds and it sort of escalated and grew and grew,” Mr Dawes said.
“We ejected people that were causing disruptions in the show and it built up. Out on River Road it just got worse and worse so unfortunately, we had to go into a lockdown.
“All of our gates got shut, physically padlocked shut until we had a police presence to deal with what was going on outside.
“The safety of our community always comes first. We are deeply disappointed that the actions of a small group disrupted a day that so many volunteers, exhibitors and families had been looking forward to.
“I want to thank our security team, who acted calmly and professionally under very difficult conditions, and WA Police for their response.”
According to Mr Dawes, there were also instances of youths abandoning their attempts at entry through the main entrance and instead opting to search for spots in the fencing to cut the cable ties and breach the event.
The large group also gathered in the surrounding area and blocked nearby roads, creating a danger to motorists and pedestrians.
Armadale Police said they are still investigating the incident and have called for witnesses.
“Armadale Police are seeking public assistance for information and vision as they investigate an incident that occurred in Kelmscott on Saturday, 17 October 2026,” a police statement said.
“About 4.05pm, police received reports of a large group of juveniles causing a disturbance at a showground, with several juveniles reportedly fighting one another.
“Upon police arrival, the group dispersed. No injuries were reported.
“Anyone who witnessed antisocial or unlawful behaviour, or who has mobile phone, CCTV or other relevant vision, is asked to contact Crime Stoppers via www.crimestopperswa.com.au or 1800 333 000.
“Anyone with vision relating to the incident can be uploaded directly to investigators via this link: https://wapf.au.evidence.com/…/com…/public/kelmscottshow”.
No charges have been laid. One juvenile male received a caution for disorderly behaviour.
