The name Fred's Pass originally referred to a gap in the Daly Ranges through which the Fred's Pass Road (later part of the Stuart Highway, since bypassed) ran, and was named by surveyor W. P. Auld for his fellow-explorer Fred Litchfield, whose name is also commemorated in the nearby Litchfield shire.

The event was first held in 1978 as a school fete and has continued grow over the years.

[5] The show celebrates and exhibits achievements in local agriculture, horticulture, sport and community endeavours, as well as featuring many sideshows, rides and demonstrations.

[6] The Rural Show attracts visitors from all over the Northern Territory, and is a family oriented event.

The Northern Territory Government runs free busses to the reserve during the show.