The Yorke Peninsula Field Days opened its gates this morning, attracting thousands of visitors to the site near Paskeville. Running from Tuesday, September 30, to Thursday, October 2, this biennial event features over 500 exhibitors and a variety of activities and displays for visitors of all ages.
As one of the largest and oldest field days in Australia, dating back to trials in 1895 near Bute, the event is expected to significantly boost the local economy, projecting an economic impact between $5 million and $8 million. This influx is anticipated from spending on accommodation, food, fuel, exhibitor fees, and other local services, with anticipated attendance up to 30,000 throughout the three days.
Copper Coast Council chief executive Dylan Strong noted the event’s national significance, highlighting its role in showcasing the resilience and innovation of the farming community. He mentioned the boost in local tourism and hospitality, particularly with nearby accommodations such as Wallaroo Holiday Park being fully booked.
Participants in the event, such as the Paskeville Sporting Bodies (PSB), are using this opportunity not only to promote local businesses but also to raise funds for community projects. PSB president Marty Daniel shared that the volunteer efforts from community members amount to approximately 1,500 to 2,000 hours of work, with proceeds supporting town maintenance and sporting facility upgrades.
Several local groups are involved in organizing and supporting the field days, including the Lions Clubs of Wallaroo and Kadina and the Moonta Football Club, among others. Newcomers this year include the Port Hughes Bowling Club and Futures Church Copper Coast.
During the opening ceremony, Member for Grey Tom Venning expressed his dedication to supporting regional industries, stating the essential role farmers play in everyday life, highlighting that everyone requires a farmer daily for meals.
As a safety reminder, motorists are advised to observe special speed limits around the Field Days site, with a community event speed restriction of 60 km/h currently in effect. This precaution follows an incident near the site where a Kia sedan collided with a truck; fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
For convenience, a free bus service is being offered to and from the event, with pickups from Kadina, Wallaroo, and Moonta. This service aims to facilitate easier access for the growing number of attendees.
The Yorke Peninsula Field Days not only celebrates the region’s agricultural achievements but also fosters community spirit and economic growth, making it a marquee event that many look forward to each year.