THE regions are growing and many people taking up farming or becoming graziers have no prior experience or generational ties to these professions.
The Scenic Rim’s first ever agricultural exhibition hopes to show newcomers the ropes as well as connect those long in the industry with expects who will impart knowledge and give support.
It will also be an opportunity anyone interested in farming to spend a day or two seeing how these everyday Aussies work hard to get food from paddock to plate.
Brian Lawson is the one of the event’s organisers, the expo is a joint venture between the Harrisville Lions and the Fassifern Valley Rotary Club.
“We are planning an expo that has something for everyone, there will be something to see, do, learn and enjoy for backyard gardeners to broadacre farmers,” he said.
The event takes place on a 25-hectare paddock beside the town of Harrisville.
On the first two days of Spring it will be filled with more than 80 exhibitors who will have set up tents, put out their products, signage, machinery or equipment.
The support for those entering the agricultural industry is enormous and forms much of the impetus behind an exhibitor’s decision to be involved.
More than just advice and guidance are on offer though.
Some very experienced horsemen and women, savvy graziers and working dog trainers will put on displays to show skills honed through generations of primary producing.It offers a glimpse into the world of agriculture in all its forms, and all in place.
Sheep and miniature goats will have their own section where the breeders will be on hand to have a chat about their livestock, while the kids can watch the animal antics.
There will also be a petting zoo for those who prefer to get a little ‘handsy” when they see a cute animal.
“What we really want to emphasise is there is something for everyone who owns or wants to own a patch of dirt – be it the size of a postage stamp or a 1,000 hectare paddock,” he said.
There will also be a two large marquees set up for an employment hub and an area where an array of speakers will lead info sessions, taking questions and giving useful advice.
Mr Lawson said interest in the event had been high with people as far away as Bundaberg to the north and northern New South Wales to the south marking it as a ‘must do’ on their calendars.
“A good portion of the paddock will be our parking lot,” he said.
“It’s really important to pre-purchase your tickets because this is looking to be a well attended event with something for everyone who has an interest in or love for agriculture.”