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The 1970 show was probably the most complete ever staged when entries topped 5480 and attendance climbed to 30,000.
As 1971 came around, there was great excitement and extra effort put in to celebrate 100 years of the society. It was decided to hold a 2 day event and the Minister of Agriculture Mr. G. L. Chandler MLC awarded the occasion the title of Grand National Centenary Show. The show was opened by the Governor Sir Rohan Delacombe, accompanied by Lady Delacombe.
A special book titled “A Show Ring Saga” chronicling the first 100 years of the Dandenong Agricultural & Pastoral Society was written by Greg Dickson.
Improvements to the Show grounds on Greaves Reserve were undertaken over the next few years, by way of erecting arena fencing, galvanized seating around the arena and the installation of power.
In 1973 an additional 8 acres of land west of the creek near Hanna Street was obtained on licence from the CRB (Country Roads Board).
By 1973 plans were undertaken to establish an Administration building to be erected as the Society’s headquarters and meeting room. A co-operative was formed and shares issued to raise the necessary additional funds required.
Ringwood Building Co. was the successful tender for $64,566 (after cooling/heating were removed from the original quote). The building was constructed of solid clay bricks with inter-locking steel roof. Due to a delay in completion the formal opening as planned did not proceed, but the new facility was used for the first time for a general committee meeting on 9th November 1976 and then that following week-end for members’ hospitality and amenities at the Show.
