The annual Goat Fest will return to the Launceston Showgrounds for a day dedicated to all things goat, including education, competitions, product samples, demonstrations, and a goat meet and greet. 

Publicity coordinator Anna Shepheard said goats have become one of those things people are more aware of as people strive to be more self-sufficient and live an environmentally friendly lifestyle. 

“They are really great animals and mini goats have really taken off as alternative pets,” Ms Shepheard said. 

This year’s event is again sponsored by TasFoods and there will a number of products like goat milk and soap available to sample on the day. 

There will also be an Artisan Goat Milk Soap competition, which attracts entries from all over the country. 

“The competitions are a lot of fun, and open for anyone to enter,” Ms Shepheard said.

Plenty of information will be available for goat owners, with experts available to answer questions. 

“A lot of those questions seem to be around feeding and the basics of making sure they are being looked after,” Ms Shepheard said.

Goat Fest is a volunteer-run event organised by Dairy Goat Society of Australia, Mohair Australia, Miniature Goat Breeders Association of Australia and the Boer Goat Breeders Association.

Ms Shepheard is looking forward to spending a day with other goat people and taking her goats along for people to interact with. 

The event will run from 10am to 4pm on February 10, with entry by gold coin donation. 

            - SARAH AQUILINA