Young hopefuls compete at South Island Agricultural Field Days

Set to kick off in Kirwee from March 26 to 28, this year’s Field Days include a focus on encouraging school leavers interested in farming to get an insight to the exciting career options agriculture offers.

“We have always let school groups attend for free with their teachers to encourage more kids to take an interest in agriculture. But this year we are taking things up a notch by getting them interacting with various elements during field days” says Annabelle Adkins, Field Days committee member.

Following along similar lines to the Young Farmers competition, Annabelle and her team have organised a SIAFD “Ag Challenge” event that includes both practical and theoretical related challenges for students to accomplish. There are already 100 students signed up to participate.

“We have taken inspiration from what Young Farmers offer and this provides a great way to introduce a fun element and appeal to schools that may not normally have many students drawn to agriculture,” she says.

The SIAFD volunteer committee enjoys strong links to Young Farmers, with many past and present members who often contribute to the running of such events.

There is also a Secondary Schools Fencing competition being held that will team of two  to construct a three-wire electric fence, drawing off the ever-popular South Island doubles fencing competition which is also a drawcard at the Field Days.

Once again organisers are ensuring children under 16 can also enter for free, with events like the Cowboy Challenge providing family focused entertainment during the event.

Held for the first time, the challenge is a competition designed to test the partnership of horse and rider as they weave through a series of obstacles along a time course. Judged on performance and horsemanship, the event is a thrilling spectator experience for all ages.

Meantime, Mums and Dads who are farmers seeking out the latest in equipment and advice can spend time getting up close and under the hood, including seeing equipment in action at the Field Day’s demonstration area.

This year that includes a Farm Trader showcase demonstration of trailers and tele-handlers for anyone considering their options for a new purchase.

“With the secondary schools competition, kids under 16 free and over 600 exhibitors we are confident this year’s Field Days will offer something for everyone, whether you are a kid, or thinking about it as a career, or if you already farm and are keen to see the latest and best equipment,” says Annabelle.

The SIAFD are being held at Kirwee from March 26-28. Click  here for ticket registration and purchase.