FarmFest ready for “biggest and busiest” event

Queensland’s largest agricultural field day, FarmFest, is marking its 49th year this year with organisers planning one of the biggest and busiest event schedules yet.

This year’s FarmFest will run from June 4 to 6 at Kingsthorpe Park on the Warrego Highway, 20km west of Toowoomba, with tickets now available for purchase online.

Elders confirmed late last year they are returning as the event’s naming rights sponsor for another three years.

Up to 2000 exhibitors are expected at this year’s event, with spaces still available for businesses wishing to lock in their spot. Agricultural equipment provider, Engage Ag, has confirmed its attendance at the show this year.  

“We go to FarmFest every year, because we believe it’s important for our business to grow and to reach people we haven’t spoken to before, have a yarn and show them what we can provide,” said Engage Ag co-founder, Sam Borchardt.

“It’s a good opportunity for visitors, too, to see what FarmFest has – the technology, the machinery, what’s new that they may not have heard about.”

A new addition for this year is the AgSmart Connect Hub that highlights ag tech and the advancements that drive efficiency and sustainability in farming practices.

"We recognise the critical importance of ag tech in modern farming operations, which is why we've decided to spotlight it at this year's FarmFest,” said organiser, ACM Agri’s Sean McKeown.

“Our AgSmart Connect Hub will showcase businesses and solutions that are shaping the future of agriculture. Collaborating with event partner Elders, daily 'Farming Forward' talks will be taking place at the Elders display next to the Hub.

“Among these talks is 'Pitch to Paddock,' where start-up businesses pitch their ideas directly to farmers. ACM Agri is putting up a $10K media prize for the best pitch.”

Related: 2024 Australian farming field days calendar

The Livestock Awards will also return this year, paying tribute to the tireless dedication of the breeding sector.

The popular Live Demo area, right next to the Livestock Hub, will give exhibitors the opportunity to demonstrate machinery.

Recognising the need for practical and accessible mental health support for farmers, ACM Agri is partnering up with mental health institute, MeHelp, to establish a site at FarmFest this year where visitors can speak to some of the team.

“We pride ourselves on staging an event that is not only a one-stop shop for farmers in the market for the likes of information, advice, support, new products and innovation news, but which also has appeal for those who may not necessarily be on the frontlines of agriculture but who appreciate rural and regional living and want a great day out,” McKeown said.

Location: 11465 Warrego Hwy, Kingsthorpe QLD 4400

Dates: June 4 to 6, 2024

Admission: Adults – $10, children aged 12 to 17 - $10, seniors/pensioners - $10, children aged 11 and under - free

Opening times: Tuesday and Wednesday – 8.30am to 4.30pm; Thursday– 8.30am to 4pm

More info or to book tickets: FarmFest website