Rabbits were first exhibited at the Show in 1858. The 1858 prize schedule featured two classes: ‘Best couple of Lop-eared Rabbits’, and ‘Best couple of rabbits of any breed’. An S.G.W Hosking is listed as entering a Buck and Doe, but no award was given.
Rabbit classes next appeared in 1869 (with a class for ‘Pair for Weight, any breed’ and a non-competitive one) through to 1877, and then from 1881 to 1882. In 1882 the classes were for: Best Lop-Eared Buck; Best Lop-Eared Doe; and Any Other Variety Buck or Doe.
During this period rabbits were shown in the poultry section, sometimes alongside ferrets, cage birds, cavies, and kangaroos.
Rabbits ceased to be included in catalogues after 1882, due predominantly to the increasing pest problem that arose from excessive breeding in Australia. This can be seen reflected in the RAS Annuals with advertisements for machines and poisons to destroy rabbits appearing regularly.
From 1997 Rabbit competitions became a consistent part of the Show with the introduction of classes for: Fancy, Fur and Rex Rabbits. By 2025 the program welcomed breeders and pet owners, featuring breed classes for Fancy, Fur, Rex and Lop rabbits judged on colour, coat, conformation and presentation. Additional classes included Adult and Junior Handlers, Novice Exhibitor, Owner Bred, Pet Rabbit and the coveted Champion of Champions. That year, Rabbit Hopping was introduced as a new feature event, where rabbits of all breeds compete in agility courses that test their speed and skill over jumps and obstacles. Both the Rabbit and Rabbit Hopping competitions are self-administered by the Rabbit Fanciers Society of NSW Inc. and the Rabbit Hopping Association of Australia.
