AgQuip marks 50 years with successful event

It was another successful AgQuip field days in the bag, but this year was no ordinary year for the event, as it marks half a century since its inception in 1973.

Exhibitors managed to rake in a whopping $10 million in sales while tens of thousands of visitors streamed through the gates in Gunnedah (NSW) over August 22 to 24, according to event organiser, ACM Rural Events.

“It truly takes a village of people working tirelessly behind the scenes for this event to come to life, and we are lucky to have had a dedicated and hard-working team who have worked relentlessly for many years to organise and execute this event to the highest standard,” said ACM Rural Events Manager, Kate Nugent.

“As well as our incredible team, it’s just been remarkable to see such a show of support from each of the exhibitors that came to be part of the 50th Aon AgQuip. We truly are so grateful for the relationships we have forged with brands and businesses across the country, with many exhibitors returning year on year, some for decades."

This year, over 200 companies exhibited at AgQuip for the very first time, many of which are AgTech start-ups, Nugent added.

Smiling visitors filled the laneways, with many sharing their memories from the very first AgQuip in 1973.

“Visitors say they’ve been wowed by the joyous atmosphere felt across the event, as well as the diverse range of brands and exhibitors available to explore on site,” Nugent said.

“Last year’s event signalled the return of AgQuip following COVID-19, but we were still hamstrung with supply chain issues affecting businesses globally. This year we are seeing the event not only return to its former glory, but also experience exciting growth.”

While healthy sales have been reported across the event, many exhibitors said AgQuip is not just about the revenue but a chance to meet with customers face-to-face, and build strong working relationships.

“AgQuip remains the largest gathering of rural and regional people in Australia and a chance for thousands of brands to showcase their latest products and services,” Nugent said.

“The event has been a tremendous success, not only for rural producers and businesspeople, but for the wider regional community who come to meet with friends and family, and enjoy all that AgQuip has to offer.”