Ag Minister David Littleproud to open Wimmera Field Days

FEDERAL Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources David Littleproud will be a special guest at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days, performing the official opening on Wednesday.

FEDERAL Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources David Littleproud will be a special guest at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days, performing the official opening on Wednesday.

Hosted at the purpose-built Wimmera Events Centre at Longerenong, the long-running field days showcase the latest developments in broad-acre farming practices, machinery, equipment, technology and services.

David Littleproud.

The event began in 1963, after a group of local farmers and agricultural association members visited Orange field days the previous year.

The first-ever gathering, held on a site provided by Longerenong Agricultural College, drew 80 exhibitors and 3000 visitors. This year, more than 300 exhibitors have booked sites.

This year’s program features a wide range of attractions, from the latest in farm machinery and equipment to live demonstrations, fine foods and colourful family entertainment.

Highlights will include the annual Victorian Farm Sculpture competition and the return of the stunt riders from Factory FMX Motocross, who will be leaping over some imposing tractors and machinery during their thrice-daily shows.

There’ll be displays of boating and camping equipment, trucks and trailers and livestock, while, elsewhere, visitors can join cooking or shearing demonstrations, watch fashion parades, take a helicopter ride, see a wildlife show and browse the busy pavilions and Country Lifestyle Precinct.

Wednesday is the traditional Family Day, with ­family-friendly attractions, concerts and shows, while food options on offer range from gourmet burgers and German sausages to baked potatoes, wood-fired pizza and fresh strawberries.

Field Days president Peter Moore farms 2000ha on the northern edge of Horsham, growing wheat, barley, lentils, peas, chickpeas and canola.

“The season has been slightly better than average, with district yields up, but some of the prices for lentils and pulses were down a bit,” Mr Moore said.

“The Field Days committee has about 36 members, some of whom have notched up remarkably long service, one for as much as 54 years.

“They’re supported by about 300 volunteers from the local community who help over the three days, with some clubs, schools and charities using the opportunity as their major fundraiser for the year.

“As always, I’m hoping for good weather, good crowds and happy exhibitors and I’d encourage everyone to come along.

“The days aren’t only about agriculture. People will find many things to interest them.”

OPENING TIMES

Tuesday March 6:

8.30am – 5pm

Wednesday March 7:

8.30am – 5pm

Thursday March 8:

8.30am – 4pm

ENTRY

Adults: $18,

Two-day pass: $25

Students 12-18y.o: $5

Under 12 free. No discounts.

Eftpos is available for entry

at Gate 2 & 3.

PARENTS AND BABIES

A well-equipped Family and Kids Marquee is situated in Field Days

Square behind the office offering a place for little ones to get changed, have a play and there are also private feeding areas available.

FIRST AID

Emergency Medical Response will have qualified First Aid-trained staff and their fully equipped vehicles stationed near the Field Days office each day.

FREE SITE EXPLORER BUS ‘HOP ON HOP OFF’

Instead of walking use our free Site Explorer Bus to see the entire Field Days. Runs throughout the day from 9am-4pm.

SCOOTER HIRE

Scooter Hire is available at Gate 2

To book call 0428 694 335

FREE COURIER SERVICE FOR PURCHASED GOODS

Use the free courier and parcel pick-up service to help with all your bigger purchases. Your item can be picked up and taken to the depot for you to collect when you are ready to leave.

BANKING

Banking services with eftpos for money withdrawal is located at the south end of the Field Days office. Opening hours are 9.30am-4.30pm.