Dry conditions greeted the thousands of people who poured through the gates of the Elmore Events Centre.
Elmore & District Machinery Field Days president Scott Nichol said it was the ideal start for the 2022 edition of the annual event.
“The crowd has been astronomical,” Mr Nichol said.
“We haven’t quite collated the crowd number yet, but looking down the laneways around here, all you can see is people.”
Mr Nichol said there had been a great sense of anticipation leading into this year’s event after COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the field days in 2020 and 2021.
“After two years off, I think there has been a lot of excitement for people that we’re back,” Mr Nichol said.
“People love coming to have a look at the exhibits.
“We’ve got 700 exhibitors who are showcasing a wide range of products in all shapes and sizes, there’s been some really good stuff for people to check out.”
The George Holmberg Pavilion was the most popular location on day one with beloved Channel 7 weather presenter and meteorologist Jane Bunn on stage.
Ms Bunn shared her upcoming forecast for the region throughout the spring/summer period and fielded a number of questions from the audience during her hour-long appearance.
“It is so great to be back at Elmore for the first time since 2019,” Ms Bunn told The Riv.
“I first appeared at the Elmore Field Days probably 10 or 12 years ago, it is a wonderful event to be a part of.
“Having that interaction with the audience and answering their questions is my favourite part of it all.”
Ms Bunn said she was pleasantly surprised to see “how good the ground” was, but forecast a wetter spring/summer period than normal.
One of the interested observers of Ms Bunn’s presentation was the man who the pavilion is named in honour of.
George Holmberg was one of the founding committee members of the Elmore Field Days and today is a Life Governor.
“It is great to see how big it has grown,” Mr Holmberg said.
Another of the stars on day one was the Ag Art Wear Showcase.
The fashion parade celebrated the wonderful 20-year history of the competition, taking the public through a journey of imaginative, unique and artistic outfits made from agricultural materials.
Eventgoers turned out in strong numbers at the shearing shed to see the likes of Buchan shearer Rick Hodge in action.
The food courts scattered across the venue proved a popular location for a pitstop as people of all ages tucked into the likes of gourmet sausages and wood-fired pizzas.
The field days continue today and tomorrow.
Opening hours are 8.30am to 5pm.
Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for secondary students and children under-12 are free.
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