Hugh Wirth AM

Hugh John Wirth loved animals from a young age, so it was no surprise that he chose a career in veterinary science. Hugh loved visiting the Royal Melbourne Show as a child. His father and grandmother both showed dogs, but Hugh was interested in all of the animals at the Show and would spend two days visiting as many as he could.

In 1965, Hugh was invited to become part of the veterinary panel at the Royal Melbourne Show. He enjoyed the experience so much, he returned every year until 2006 when he retired. As a veterinarian at the Royal Melbourne Show, Hugh examined and looked after the huge array of animals being exhibited, and was responsible for deciding if an animal should not be shown for any reason.

As well as continuing to work in his own veterinary practice, Hugh became involved with the RSPCA as well as Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV). Hugh, along with other members of the veterinary panel, helped to influence change in animal husbandry and practice at the Show. During Hugh’s time, practices at the Royal Melbourne Show changed from having animals on site for two weeks at a time to having animals come in daily or for only a few days at a time. Reflecting on these changes Hugh says:  

I think that's revolutionised our work as veterinary panel people, because the number of calls we get to attend to animals has dropped off dramatically … the whole thing from a welfare point of view, animal welfare point of view, there's been a great change, and all for the better.

Hugh sees the Show as having a very important role to play in education around animal welfare, as well as bridging the rural and urban divide. By providing the entertainment that has come to be expected by the visiting urban crowds, RASV and the Show can also provide information about animal husbandry and demonstrate the connection between the urban life and rural agriculture. Children can come to the Show for the showbags and the rides, but also learn that milk comes from cows, not just from the supermarket.

Hugh was awarded the President’s Medal in 1998 and was made an RASV honorary life member. He passed away in 2018.