8th, 9th & 10th July 2010

From the Managing Director’s Desk

JUST when we thought the year 2008 endured some exciting times such as massive floods in the Central Highland, this year the region has endured the recession, bad debt stories, the crash of the stock market, and the mining meltdown.

Yet Queensland’s Premier Field Day, Ag-Grow QMIX to be held over three days from Thursday, July 9, 10, and 11 has powered through the much reported economic crisis.
While we have endured a downturn in exhibitors directly related to the mining industry, the agricultural side of our event is stronger than ever.

Visitors to this year’s event we notice the increased number of stud cattle displays, record horse sale nominations, an increase in store cattle nominations which has exceeded our ability to house them.

Overall this is a pleasing result and as such we have placed an extra focus on the water delivery facilities to the cattle wash areas, and this should make it easier for our exhibitors.

The amazing thing about Ag-Grow is its ability to stimulate a party crowd, and this year we are expecting patrons to stay on into the evening to enjoy themselves.

The new exit bar which proved so successful last year, will no doubt be packed to the rafters with entertainment and a camp oven dinner again by Greg Hunt from Longreach. Friday night never disappoints and this year the tradition will continue with Don Costa singing his Classic Country on centre stage at the main bar.

He is putting out a new CD so you get to hear all his new material.

Absolutely nothing to do with NASA, but delivering with the same style and grace, will be our shuttle bus doing repeated round trips to town for your safety and comfort.

Don’t forget to drop in for lunch at the Commonwealth Bank Cattleman’s Oasis, right near the auction complex, its quite convenient and has lots of seating to rest your weary bones.

Everywhere patrons go they will see our giveaway, a Ford Ranger. Tradesmen and builders love ‘em and farmers wouldn’t be without ‘em. They are more faithful than a blue dog! To celebrate our 20th year, Ag-Grow and Newhaven Ford are giving one away.

All you have to do is fill out your entry form and get a few stamps and you’re in it to win!

Our opening will be addressed by our special guest, LNP Leader John-Paul Langbroek, who will officially open Ag-Grow 2009, our 20th year of business and socializing in the vibrant Central Highlands.

I welcome everyone to our 20th year celebrations and look forward to catching up with old friends, exhibitors and visitors alike.

Geoff Dein
Managing Director
Ag-Grow Emerald