Crowds started rolling into the Bendigo Showgrounds on Friday, with preparations for the huge event starting months ago. 

This year's show marks the return of the Brophy family circus, which is set to enthrall both young and old. Another highlight is the monster trucks, which are set to make their presence felt when they leap over cars. Then there are the rides.

Bendigo Agricultural Show secretary Rod Bowles said the show was its 155th year and was bigger than ever.

He said typical show attendance could vary from about 15,000 to 17,000 but it was "all weather dependent".

He said the weekend's entertainment included a "wheel of steel", a wood-chopping competition including a demonstration from Australian wood-chopping champion Lawrence O'Toole, a ute show on the Saturday, animal shows and, the big finale, fireworks on the Saturday night.

Tickets to the show cost $35 for a family. The show is on today from 9am to 5pm. 

Don't miss it - it's perfect for the entire family.

For a full program, visit www.bendigoshow.org.au