Farm field day record

A record attendance of about 6000 visitors flocked through the gates for the eighth Gidgegannup Small Farm Field Day last Sunday.

There were also a record 140 exhibitors at the event.

With the theme "Growing our Future", event co-ordinator Sally Block said the field day once again focussed on the many diverse opportunities that existed in the Gidgegannup area.

Expert presentations on various subjects were well attended, with speakers including horticulturalist Chris Ferreira, the Beyond Gardens team and soil expert Steve Woods.

A new exhibitor was the Slow Food Movement, which provided tastings and demonstrations of locally produced food.

Ms Block said the Discovery Trail proved to be particularly popular with families, because it involved children venturing around exhibits, asking questions and learning about the importance of agriculture.

Children were also given the opportunity to make their own worm farm, assisted by the Worm Shed, of Chittering, while the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm and pony and camel rides were a big hit.

Humpy Camels had its camel train at the event for the first time.

Other popular features included the poultry shed, an alpaca display, face painting and shows by Punch and Judy and Ricky Possum.

Ms Block said proceeds mostly went to covering event costs, however, some profits would go towards Experience Gidgegannup, a group that aims to increase the viability of local rural operations and tourism by providing growth and value-adding opportunities.