Initiative brings scientists and farmers together
An initiative by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to connect farmers with scientists is taking off judging by the response at recent regional field days.
The three-day March event has been running for more than 30 years and attracts exhibitors from around the country with nearly 25,000 visitors from the lower half of the North Island.
The event showcases the latest in primary industry innovations alongside a range of lifestyle exhibits and activities for families and children. The event is spread over 33 hectares at the Manfield racetrack, allowing plenty of room for exhibitors and visitors to wander around freely. It's seen as one of the highlights of the local agri calendar.
According to the organisers, the event is aimed at locals and is an opportunity for farmers to meet with machinery dealers as well as other service providers such as banks, insurance companies, fert reps, contractors and rural professionals who service the farming community in the lower and central North Island.
According to event manager, Jonathan Paul, the CD field days is a "must do agri event". He says among the 10-plus automotive bands on display is a new e-truck and a range of other electric machinery offerings.
"Last year it generated $40 million in sales and provided an invaluable opportunity to have a yarn off farm. People tell us they love the local feel about the event," he says.
The main sponsor of the event, Brandt, is offering a special deal for children. If they take their used toys to the Brandt stand they can get a new one and the best of the used ones will be donated to local community groups.
One of the features of the event is the "science for farmers" exhibit organised by the Ministry for Primary Industries and in partnership with several science organisations including Massey University.
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The power fencing competition is one of the highlights of the three-day event. |
This is designed to highlight some of the cool innovations that are being developed to help farmers reduce costs and increas productivity. It will also be an opportunity for school children to see some of the amazing technologies that are used on farms and in the wider primary sector.
As well as the exhibits, there are several competitions running throughout the three days.
These include the National Excavator Operation Competition, the Golden Loader competition and Power Fencing Competition. There is also a wood chopping demonstration with competitors ranging in age from 10 to 70-plus years.
Overall, the event is said to be on track to be one of the great showcase events for the primary sector.
