SPEED Lions Club’s president of the field days, Jacko Kiley, says it’s “great to be back” following the cancellation of the Mallee Machinery Field Days event in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19.
Despite challenging times, Mr Kiley said a community effort ensured the event went ahead this year.
“It took a fair bit to get it going this year, but it was a team effort and I’d like to thank all of the volunteers who made it possible,” he said.
While bad weather was forecast for Wednesday’s opening day, perfect winter conditions provided the ideal backdrop as attendees of all ages admired the latest and greatest in agricultural machinery and technology.
Hopetoun resident Tara Littlejohns said this was the first time she had attended the field days in a long time.
“I haven’t attended in about 20 years since I left home,” Ms Littlejohns said, noting she had recently returned to the area after moving from Darwin.
“It’s been great.”
First time craft exhibitor Mandy Valentine showcased her resin designs after turning a hobby into a business a few years ago.
“I did a resin course around six or seven years ago,” Ms Valentine said.
“I love getting out and about.”
Meanwhile, the importance of community was highlighted when cricketing great Brad Hogg spoke of his aspirations to play for Australia, while acknowledging his battle with mental health.
Having experienced suicidal thoughts during a low point in his life, Hogg said his perception changed when he came across 13 goals he’d written on a whiteboard which he’d hoped to achieve.
Within weeks his mindset had changed and he had a renewed outlook on life, which resulted in a new relationship, new job and a cricketing comeback.
Growing up on his family farm in Western Australia, Hogg said the true values of growing up in the country had allowed him to overcome adversity.
While he’s learnt a lot over the years and is now a mental health ambassador for various organisations, Hogg has teamed up with Grain Producers Australia to highlight the importance of mental health, particularly among farming communities.
“It’s really important that you make sure you stay connected in a physical capacity,” Hogg said.
