Seymour Alternative Farming Expo: From homes to drones, expo has it covered

LAST year, some 20,000 people attended the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo and organisers are expecting this year’s three-day event to surpass that figure.

Minor marvel: Tiny House will be building one of these small homes at the Seymour expo.

LAST year, some 20,000 people attended the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo and organisers are expecting this year’s three-day event to surpass that figure.

The expo, which runs from February 17-19, is in its 26th year, and has notched up a milestone that all organisers secretly hope for: year-on-year growth.

“The year before last we grew some 10 per cent and we are hoping for a similar level of growth this year,” said expo organiser Susie Filleti.

“We have more exhibitors this year as well, approximately 500, which is great.”

New to Seymour this year is a series of DIY artisan workshops in cheese, sourdough, and yoghurt making; beer brewing; chook raising; and permaculture.

“We really wanted to incorporate the homemade element into the expo because it has become so popular,” Ms Filleti said.

“There is a very real desire from people to learn about high-end food production.”

There will be more than 20 different breeds on show, including Wiltipoll sheep and rare British White cattle, pygmy goats, and, of course, the obligatory alpacas.

There will also be a display from JMB Constructions of a shipping container that has been converted into a home, as well as a tiny houses display that taps into the trend for pared back, de-cluttered living.

Shipping container homes.

Ms Filleti said organisers had tried to ensure they reached all segments of the small-to-medium producer and grower markets.

“The real trend we are seeing is the use of technology and innovation.

For instance, we have a session on drones for farm mapping and one on solar panels.

“I couldn’t imagine that 15 years ago.”

The popular Farmer’s Market, Country Kitchen and Food Courts will be back this year, offering fresh produce, demonstrations and gourmet food. The Kids’ Zone will feature craft activities, an animal nursery, rides, and talks by the Snake Man.

Karen Sutherland of Edible Eden Designs will offer permaculture tips and advice on edible native plants.

Ms Sutherland will demonstrate how to use fresh and dried leaves and experiment with vinegars and marinades using old man saltbush, strawberry gum and native thyme.

Event co-ordinator Liz Connick said the expo allowed farmers the chance to ask questions before making long-lasting on-farm decisions.

“For any small-to-medium practising farmers, the tree changer or someone new to the land, the expo is where they can get all the information they need to help them decide what type of animal or breed is suitable for their farm,” Ms Connick said.