Like many country children, Debbie’s show journey began in the pavilion, entering the floral decorated saucer before progressing to showing budgerigars at 18 and volunteering as the steward.
After marrying Ray in 1981, Debbie discovered cake decorating. Inspired by local cake decorators Betty Russell and Barbara Porter and countless hours of self-teaching, she mastered all the traditional techniques.
Debbie has never missed a Horsham Show since she began exhibiting almost 50 years ago. Since entering her first decorated cake in 1981, she has competed every year, winning the Wimmera Agricultural Shows Association decorated cake or plaque award about 30 times and establishing herself as one of the region’s most accomplished exhibitors.
Her talent has been recognised beyond Horsham, with repeated success at the Melbourne Royal Show, where she has claimed most successful exhibitor award several times.
On one occasion she entered seven decorated cakes and all seven won first prize, including one that had been damaged while travelling to Melbourne.
Although best known for her decorated cakes, Debbie has also enjoyed success in the cookery and patchwork sections.
She has exhibited Dalmatians and miniature horses across Victoria, highlighting the diversity of competitions that agricultural shows encourage.
Exhibiting has become a family tradition. Her son Stephen inherited his mother’s passion for baking and has enjoyed considerable success himself, including winning at local and state level.
As the society marks its 150th anniversary, Debbie Carman’s story reminds us the Horsham Show has always been about more than ribbons.
It has been built by people who return year after year, sharing their skills, inspiring others and ensuring the traditions of the show continue for generations to come.
The entire August 12, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
