Ag-Grow (Emerald) 2017

Ag-Grow

For more than 25 years, Ag-Grow Emerald, in Queensland, has brought together the very best agricultural exhibitors. The three-day event is one of the country’s top five field days with crowds of more than 28,000 attending. Visitors can enjoy agricultural displays and various exhibitions from local and national exhibitors.

Livestock sales

Ag-Grow offers great opportunities for those in the industry to buy premier livestock. Both the horse and bull auctions are invite only in order to maintain high standards. The livestock sales regularly exceed $3 million and the event has achieved the state’s highest recorded price for store cattle for the past six years. Alongside the horse and bull sales, Ag-Grow also offers a working cattle dog sale and this usually takes place on the second day of the exhibition.

Prospective horse buyers have the chance to see the animals in action at special pre-sale displays with most of the horses well experienced and sold ready to work. On the Ag-Grow website, sale co-ordinator Ken McCaffrey talks about the advantages of experienced livestock. “We prefer to offer… sound horses that have been in the big paddocks and done some miles with cattle, and know what a big day’s mustering feels like. Our buyers like them reliable and safe.” Meanwhile, the bull sale consists of leading studs from across the industry, with the animals also available for inspection prior to the auction.

Major attraction

One of Ag-Grow’s highlights is the Central Highlands Colt Starting challenge which began four years ago and continues to grow in popularity. The two-day challenge pairs experienced horse whisperers with three unridden colts. During that time, they must train the horses and break them in so they can be ridden.

Entertainment

It’s not all auctions and agricultural deals at Ag-Grow; the event also offers plenty of entertainment for visitors who just want a fun day out. At the entertainment square, adults can relax and enjoy live music and fashion parades, while children can play on jumping castles and have their faces painted. There’s even a rock climbing wall. One particular highlight is the ladies lounge which offers visitors free mini facials alongside lounge and massage chairs.

Accommodation

Exhibitors have the opportunity to camp on-site, although this should be arranged with the organisers. There are a number of hotels and motels in and around Emerald, but be aware that these may fill up as the event gets closer.

Prices

Tickets are available at the gate.

One-day adult admission: $10

Three-day adult admission: $25

Free entry for school children and pensioners. Students need to show ID cards.

To find out more, please visit the Ag-Grow website.

Location

Ag-Grow is located just outside of Emerald, along the Capricorn Highway.