People out in force for field days return
The sun shone on the Mallee Machinery Field Days last week, with near record attendees for the event’s return at Speed.
Field days president Terry Kiley said feedback from visitors and exhibitors was positive, with most sites booked for the two days.
Mr Kiley said he had concerns about the success of the event, with the unknown of how it would turn out after a three-year hiatus. “But it’s been excellent,” he said. “The first day was amazing, with a huge crowd.
“It’s hard to know if it was a record crowd or not, but it would come close.
“Exhibitors are chuffed, especially with how busy the first day was – it’s been great to hear.
“You never really know how it’s go- ing to go until it happens, but overall, we’re very pleased.
“I was worried about COVID-19 cases and the flu around at the moment, and we had a few late withdrawals from exhibitors.”
The field days, on August 3 and 4, attracted about 350 exhibitors from across western Victoria.
Nutrien Ag Birchip fertiliser and depot manager Andrew Bidstrup said it was ‘awesome’ to be back at the field days and see all the visitors.
“It’s been a huge turnout, which is really good,” he said.
“The season looks really good at the moment, so people are happy.”
Emmetts Swan Hill regional manager Shaun Demario said after not being at the field days for some time due to restrictions, it was good to see regular and new customers in the area.
“It’s great for the industry and we have missed it for quite some time, so it’s excellent to see people come together,” he said.
Mr Kiley said there was a great vibe across the venue and the weather had been ‘turned on’ for the two days. “This cropping season has been one of the better ones and I think it is pretty much all over western Victoria,” he said.
“We’re ticking along really well, and I don’t think I’ve seen it better at this time of year, but we’re not quite home yet.
“August and September weather will be important. It would be nice to get an inch of rain in the next two to three weeks.”