Agfest 2024: Bumper crowds and perfect weather at Tasmania’s biggest rural event

Tasmania’s biggest rural event has opened under perfect blue skies. The thousands of people streaming through the gates gave farmers a ray of hope during a difficult spell.

Governor of Tasmania Barbara Baker and Agfest chairman Dylan Bellchambers at the opening day of the 2024 Agfest. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

Thousands descended on Quercus Park on Thursday for day one of Agfest, making the most of fine and sunny conditions.

While the perfect weather in the lead-up to the event had been ideal for the organising committee, record-breaking drought conditions left farmers worried, with many describing the situation as “desperate”.

TasFarmers president Ian Sauer said drought conditions across the state had resulted in a shortage of hay and other feeds.

“This is the worst drought we’ve seen in 100 years,” Mr Sauer said.

“People are incredibly stressed, both emotionally and financially.”

TasFarmers president Ian Sauer at the 2024 Agfest. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

Despite the challenges Tasmanian farmers continue to face, Mr Sauer said the field day provides an important opportunity for the farming community to connect and support one another.

“Agfest is vitally important, especially in tough times like this,” he said.

“We’re lucky to be able to get together at an event like this and just talk to one another. The social aspect of Agfest is very important.

“And the field day also offers farmers a chance to look around at the new machinery and innovation on offer.”

Agfest is a huge economic driver for the region, generating about $27m every year.

With more than 600 exhibitors on display, Agfest chairman Dylan Bellchambers said the 42nd annual event has something for everyone.

“Agfest is one of the state’s largest and premier events, not just in its sheer scale of exhibitors or attendees, but in how it is a central event on the Tasmanian calendar,” he said.

“More so for our Tasmanian agricultural and rural communities to connect and reconnect with each other.”

Originally published as Agfest 2024: Bumper crowds and perfect weather at Tasmania’s biggest rural event