A Fieldays like no other

Fieldays 2022 was always going to be a Fieldays like no other. Besides the obvious – slapping on sunscreen instead of scarves, jandals instead of Redbands, and ice creams replacing hot soup – it also came at a time when farmers were pretty much under the pump.

Cows still needed to be milked, grass to be mown and antlers to be velveted.

But still so many made the journey there and the effort paid off.

Yes, numbers were down, but engagement was up.

Feedback from exhibitors reflected this as well – with many saying the lower attendance meant they got to have more meaningful connection with their customers, rather than rushed conversations.

Instead of spending hours in line for food or the loo, people were spending more time catching up with friends, neighbours, colleagues and newly-made acquaintances.

More time investigating the newest innovations in farming technology, rather than battling through the throngs.

Driving in and out was a breeze, leaving more time for shopping and less time fuming in line trying to get in or out of the carparks.

But, in our minds, the biggest upside of a summer event came in the form of being able to sneak through the gate one afternoon, to hold a charity golf fundraiser at neighbouring Tieke Golf Estate.

Thanks to the generosity of farmers and exhibitors alike, we raised over $10,000 for the IHC Calf and Rural Scheme – an awesome result.

Fieldays won’t be held again in the first week of summer, but we’re so glad we were there for this one.

Let’s do it all again in six and a half months! ■

Jamie Mackay and Rowena Duncum broadcast The Country radio show on Newstalk ZB, Gold Sport and Hokonui Monday to Friday 12-1pm. Also streamed on iheart Radio and on demand at thecountry.co.nz