TASMANIA’S biggest event got off to perfect start yesterday as thousands of patrons flocked through the gates at Agfest.
A cold start did not deter patrons who turned out in droves at Quercus Park taking advantage of the fine weather.
Agfest vice chairman Dylan Bellchambers said the committee was thrilled to see the event get off to such a great start after months of work. “It was absolutely magical to watch the sun come up this morning,” he said. The committee is hoping for a crowd of about 60,000 over the three days and Mr Bellchambers said yesterday was a good start.
“It’s great to have the day running and see so many patrons coming through the gates,” he said. “I heard from traffic reports this morning there were quite a few coming through which is great to see on the first day of the event.”
While rain is forecast for today, Mr Bellchambers said that should not have a huge impact on crowd numbers. “It’s only a few showers, which is nothing too unusual for Agfest,” he said. “Certainly nothing like August last year and some of the mud we experienced then, that’s not going to occur again this year.”
Central Arena will once again be a focus this year as students from across the state compete in livestock handling and junior judging competitions.
Tomorrow will also see the Ag Art Wear competition held at 11.45am in Central Arena.
Mr Bellchambers said this year a team of more than 120 Rural Youth volunteers was helping to run the event. Agfest remains a significant economic driver for the state, generating more than $30 million every year. “It’s not only the impact for the guys here today, but it’s the sales that come out of it down the track too,” he said. “Connecting rural communities and industries is also valuable.” He said they had done a significant amount of work across the site.
All ticket sales are online this year.
To purchase a ticket go to http://www.agfest.com.au