Equestrian adds to Farm World success

Strong weekend crowds, sales and growing support for the equestrian expo have contributed to another successful Farm World.

The four-day event concluded on Sunday and organisers were rapt with the success for exhibitors and feature events at the field days.

Lardner Park chief executive officer Nicola Pero said the past year had been a challenge for many people in agricultural industries so the strong crowds and sales were promising.

Ms Pero said despite weather affecting Thursday and Friday crowd numbers, the weekend made up for it, contributing to a similar crowd level of last year’s record of 57,000 people.

She said many exhibitors said while Thursday was lower in crowd numbers, serious buyers were out and about that day, contributing to quality sales.

She said many exhibitors reported increased sales which was encouraging.

Ms Pero said the equestrian expo, now in its second year, had secured its place as a permanent feature of the Farm World program.

“There were terrific crowds at the equestrian which recorded maximum entries including Olympian level riders.

“The masterclasses were very well supported and we want to expand and build on that success.

She said the mounted games on Sunday also were well supported and popular for crowds.

Ms Pero said the Women in Agriculture luncheon on Thursday was a great feature of the program, with 175 people attending.

She said guest speakers Emma Germano and Rebel Black were well received.

Ms Pero said the Jersey milk-off ran by Gippsland Jersey was a popular attraction that enabled the dairy industry to engage with the community.

She said as well as displaying the economic importance of dairying in the region, the milkoff proved to be a high point of interest for community members.

This year’s theme for Farm World was Food and Fibre, which Ms Pero said supported many aspects of the agricultural and horticultural industries.

She said there was a lot of interest to expand the theme next year to include chef demonstrations.

“It reflects the growth in horticulture and people’s desire to have a connection with their foods,” she said.

Ms Pero said Farm World’s success was largely due to the incredible support of local community groups and the voluntary committee members.

“We rely heavily on their commitment,” she said.