Mallee Machinery Field Days: Fashion on the Fields stage

THERE is no doubt the Mallee Field Days is largely about new gear: the new-release headers and 7000-litre sprayers, the international tractors and state-of-the-art chaser bins.

The Crafts and Interest Pavilion holds a fashion parade annually. Picture: Andy Rogers

THERE is no doubt the Mallee Field Days is largely about new gear: the new-release headers and 7000-litre sprayers, the international tractors and state-of-the-art chaser bins.

But that does not mean there is not something for those who want a break from the vast array of farm machinery and equipment.

This is where Therese Jolly, organiser of the Crafts and Interest Pavilion, comes in.

“There are lots of displays and equipment for the men, but we need to make sure women are happy, too,” Mrs Jolly said.

“If we didn’t supply anything for women, I don’t think they would come,” she said.

“If you’re not a farmer, you have no interest in looking at tractors all day.”

She said the Crafts and Interest Pavilion was a popular place to find kids, mums, grandmothers and even the occasional bloke.

It has been at the field days since its inception — although in 1978 it was called the craft tent and had a small range of jams, garden furniture and plants. This year, the Crafts and Interest Pavilion will feature a fashion parade at 2pm each day, which will be led by stylist Trudy Symes.

Ms Symes will talk about styling to suit personality, body shape and budget.

“Our fashion parades are always popular, but adding a stylist is a new thing we’re doing,” Mrs Jolly said.

The clothes will be supplied by Swan Hill store, Poppy & Lola.

She said there would be a number of cooking demonstrations.

Jamie Hooper, from Jamie’s Fine Dressings, will lead one session, while Doug Elsum, from spices company Screaming Seeds, will lead another.

There is also plenty of food, including fudge for the kids, as well as jewellery, candles, wooden toys and essential oils.

Speakers will also be taking to the stage.

Dementia consult from Alzheimer’s Australia Bertilla Campbell will offer insights on the disease, while Mallee women Katie Sutton (exercise physiologist) and Margot Faracia (regional agribusiness manager) will share stories on becoming successful career women.