THE new age of agriculture is upon us, with advances in technology opening opportunities in the face of an increasingly uncertain climate.
Despite a difficult start to the season, farmers will receive the support they have come to expect from exhibitors at this year’s Dowerin GWN7 Machinery Field Days, with more than 700 businesses booked to attend in the face of an uncertain year.
Dowerin Events Management chairman Michael Metcalf said this year’s event, to be held on August 30-31, would celebrate the New Age of Agriculture by highlighting some of the great technological advances the industry has to offer.
“We are giving the Synergy Technology and Innovation’s area a facelift and visitors can expect to see some new businesses offering the latest in agricultural technology,” Mr Metcalf said.
“There have been several changes to the livestock pavilions, with the introduction of the Sire Evaluation into the Bayer Avenge Ram Shed and Junior Merino Judging into the Milne Marquee.”
The Sire Evaluation is a joint venture by the Stud Merino Breeders’ Association, Australian Merino Sire Evaluation Association and the Muresk Institute.
The progeny of 11 sires will be evaluated to determine which positive attributes are passed on.
It will include information from the partners and a shearing demonstration.
There will also be new family exhibits and attractions, including a fashion parade in a new format.
Event co-ordinator Sue Blay said they had partnered with Eco Fashion Week to offer two daily parades at this year’s event.
“The fashion parades will include a preview of Eco Fashion week, which is the only showcase of its kind in Western Australia, with designers using only sustainable products, such as wool and cashmere, to create their garments,” Ms Blay said.
“The parades will take place in the GWN7 Pavilion, which this year will be at the Community Club.”
Families will be well catered for with the introduction of the new Empowering Parents Pavilion.
Event co-ordinator Jenna Santos said the pavilion would house a range of professionals such as behavioural experts, lactation consultants, dietitians, physical therapists and safety professionals.
“The pavilion will include trade stalls, a play area for children, a place for parents to relax and a wide range of presentations throughout the two days, including a Q&A session with an expert panel,” Ms Santos said.
“We aim to give parents access to a range of industry professionals that are not widely available in rural areas.”
After the success of the Equestrian Exhibit last year, the attraction will continue to grow, with new presenters added to this year’s program.
“Some of the new demonstrations will include eventing by Olympic medallist Sonja Johnson and Confidence Clinics by eastern State’s trainer Sandi Simons,” she said.
“Equine enthusiasts can also expect to see clinics on starting horses under saddle, working equitation, ranch sorting and physiotherapy, in addition to returning presenters including top dressage rider Victoria Hamilton.”
