AFTER a delay to the event in 2021, the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo will return from April 16 to 18.
Usually the third week of February, event manager Jamie Gilbert said the decision to delay the event to April was made last year to give it the best chance of survival amid COVID-19 restrictions.
“We made the decision in late October 2020 that we just didn’t see a pathway from the government for large-scale events,” he said.
“The exciting part for the event is actually just being able to run a tier-one large-scale event in Victoria [and] just opening the gates.”
While the April dates presented some challenges, clashing with busy times of the year for certain sectors of the farming industry, Mr Gilbert said running the event during the autumn school holidays was also a big plus.
“It obviously has some advantages, our event traditionally is quite warm, so the weather around the middle of April can be more pleasant,” he said.
More than 300 exhibitors will demonstrate the latest technology, practices and trends in small and backyard farming, with animals, products to buy, food and entertainment.
This year the spotlight will be on modern farming methods, ag-tech solutions and sustainability.
“Over the years the event has grown to incorporate sustainability, including off-the-grid, renewable resources and low-impact living,” Mr Gilbert said.
“The latest technological advancements, machinery and equipment for small acreage farming – you’ll find it all at the expo.
“There’ll also be opportunities for up-to-date information on animal health and farm diversity ideas in the Small Farms Learning
Hub, as well as the return of the All4FMX quad bike demos and whip-cracking for children and adults.
“There’s the ever-popular Kids’ Corner and the Country Kitchen and Butcher Shop where chef Adrian Hensley and butcher Vic Bonacci will cook up a storm.”
Mr Gilbert said he hoped the three-day event would bring people from across Victoria to Seymour and help them enjoy the township and boost for the Seymour economy.
Tickets are on sale now and must be purchased online at www.seymourexpo.com.au.
