It’s the resilience and innovation that sets the industry apart from all others.

Primary industries – like aquaculture and our crop and livestock farmers – are the backbone of our state.

We have the processors and manufacturers who utilise Tasmanian goods to create a produce that provides additional value.

These products are well-known Tasmanian brands like Ashgrove cheese or our many world-class vineyards and wines.

Our agriculture industry causes a strong ripple effect that benefits many different industries.

And then there is the innovation shown by farmers over the decades.

Most recently the introduction of drones to monitor paddocks, automated milking and improved data input and analysis.

Add in the science around crops, pastures and animal welfare, and agriculture becomes an attractive field for anyone looking for a career.

But one bad season and the effects can be crippling.

In recent years our farmers have been dealt two significant floods, a drought and a milk price crisis.

When farmers suffer, our region shares the pain.

But when they are experiencing great conditions we all reap the rewards.

This is why Agfest is more than just a paddock of tractors.

It’s not just about the farmers or those in the industry.

The 60,000 people expected to walk through the Carrick gates do so with varying agendas.

For some it is school groups that get a glimpse of the opportunities in the industry, or an understanding of a life they have never experienced in the city.

There are the fellow farmers or landowners connecting and exchanging ideas.

Farming is a tough business. It can be isolating.

So to share your lows, but also your highs, at an event created just for you would be an opportunity too good to miss.

Others treat Agfest like a town show. 

The three-day event is a celebration of an industry that is vital to our community, state and greater-Australia.

Regardless of why you walk through the gates – grab your boots and hat and enjoy a snapshot of country life.