THE biggest display of agricultural machinery in the history of the Mallee Machinery Field Days was celebrated earlier this month, when the Speed Lions Club hosted their 43rd annual field days.
Hailing the two-day event a huge success, MMFD secretary Matt Brady said the warm winter weather contributed to the success of the event, which saw thousands of people converge on Speed to witness the latest in agricultural machinery, innovation and technology.
“We could not have asked for better weather,” Mr Brady said.
“At one stage we were preparing for rain in the lead-up to the event, but it held off and we were very happy with the attendance.”
This year saw the extension of the outer ring to meet increased demand.
“This opened up the ring to 15 new exhibitors, making it our largest display ever,” Mr Brady said.
“Sites were at full capacity and during the event we had lots of inquiries from potential new exhibitors which made their way to Speed to see the event firsthand. This is always exciting and a testament to the event and the Speed Lions Club that we are achieving some great things.”
With lots of new releases on display, Mr Brady said the event was so successful due to the commitment of their dedicated exhibitors and sponsors, who brought along some impressive equipment.
“There was some big machinery on display, and lots of it,” Mr Brady said, noting some exhibitors had their complete series of tractors on display.
“It was great to see.
“We understand the logistics of getting this machinery to Speed, so to see a display like this year was fantastic and we are very grateful to our exhibitors who continue to support and help us grow our event.”
With something for everyone, Mr Brady said the field days appealed to a wide audience, noting there were many highlights throughout the two days.
“The art of blade shearing was on display with a number of demonstrations which attracted good crowds,” Mr Brady said.
The craft and interest tent, helicopter rides, and special guests farmer Will and Jess from Farmer Wants a Wife were also a hit with those attending.
The event is a major fundraiser for the Speed Lions Club and Mr Brady said the group would now come together to work out the beneficiaries of this year’s proceeds, which in the past have included schools, hospitals, sporting clubs and other not-for-profit groups.
“The best part of the field days is knowing that everyone that passes through the gate is contributing to making a difference,” Mr Brady said.
