Past and present
Victoria’s longest-running field days event will mark an important milestone this year.
The Wimmera Machinery Field Days began 60 years ago and is returning for another blockbuster intstalment.
The three-day event, at the Wimmera Events Centre at Longerenong from March 6 to 8, is an agriculture showcase attracting about 8500 people and 300 exhibitors annually.
Wimmera Machinery Field Days manager Vanessa Lenehan said the event was approaching quickly.
“The team came back after Christmas, got back into work and the days seem to fly by — so all of a sudden, it’s almost field days’ time,” she said.
“We have a little bit of room left for exhibitors, but we are going better than at the same time last year.
“We’ve had a lot more interest and there’s a really positive vibe at the site.”
Mrs Lenehan said organisers were embracing the history of the 60th anniversary.
“We have some Sandy Creek Clydesdales getting around, so they will do some demonstrations on harnessing and unharnessing the horses,” she said.
“They will have a cart that you can hitch a ride on and get around the field days, too.
“It ties in with the theme of revisiting things from past eras.”
Mrs Lenehan said there were some changes to the line-up of attractions this year while existing elements would continue to expand.
“Our country lifestyle area is full. We have put a lot of work into targeting exhibitors and we’ve had to rearrange quite a few things, which is exciting,” she said.
“We’re getting some of the favourites back again, too.
“The snake pit is always very popular with students and children, and we have the animal nursery and the train also coming back as well as Rev It Up Racing with the racing simulator.
“We also have something new with laser tag this year, which will be a bit of fun for any children who come along.”
Mrs Lenehan said a farm biosecurity hub was a new addition to the agriculture exhibitors.
“It’s an initiative that was brought to our attention by the Victorian Farmers Federation, as biosecurity and security is an increasing problem for farmers around the area,” she said.
“Victoria Police, Victorian Farmers Federation, Agriculture Victoria and private exhibitors who do security cameras and other devices are forming the farm biosecurity hub in the Alan Heard Pavilion.
“For anyone who has issues or wants to learn more, it’s a one-stop place to discuss it together. It’s exciting and keeps the field days relevant as well.”
Exhibitors wanting to attend the field days are encouraged to phone the office on 5384 7210 or email info@wimmerafielddays.com. au
Tickets are available online at wimmerafield days.com.au • The Weekly Advertiser will produce a special edition of Aglife on February 28, providing patrons with a guide to the event.