SUNGOLD FIELD Days chairman Tony Rea says confidence in the south-west Victorian dairy industry has flowed through to the annual event.
The 39th annual field days at Allansford on February 12 to 14 were marked by bumper crowds and strong sales for exhibitors.
“It has been excellent,” Mr Rea said.
“The crowds were phenomenal for the opening day, which was free admission, and the farmers love it because they can come to one spot and see all the new technology and machines.”
Mr Rea said Victorian Opposition leader Michael O’Brien appreciated the event.
“He was absolutely rapt,” Mr Rea said. “It was the first time he’d been to the show and he couldn’t believe the machinery and exhibits that go with the dairy industry.”
The three-day event attracted similar numbers of exhibits to previous years, including several displaying for the first time.
“There are some very interesting displays. I see something new every year; it’s amazing what turns up,” Mr Rea said.
“I was talking to an exhibitor who sold two tractors while they were unloading them and another one said he sold hay feeders as soon as they hit the ground.”
Mr Rea said the response reflected confidence in the region.
“We’ve had three wonderful years in a row and many farmers are saying this year has been the best they can remember.”