General News
26 May, 2021
Thousands expected to soak up and enjoy FNQ Field Days
THOUSANDS of patrons from across the region are expected to stream through the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds gates as the highly anticipated and much-loved Rotary FNQ Field Days gets underway this morning.
THOUSANDS of patrons from across the region are expected to stream through the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds gates as the highly anticipated and much-loved Rotary FNQ Field Days gets underway this morning.
The Biennial event is well known for showcasing the most comprehensive display of agricultural, farming equipment and products in the region.
Over the years the event has grown to also now include a large variety of non-rural related businesses.
This year’s event features more than 500 different exhibitor sites. Today’s big grand opening takes place at 1pm inside the arena, with plenty of awesome activities happening both before and after the official welcome ceremony.
The grand opening celebration will feature an agricultural machinery parade and a bobcat skills show for all to enjoy.
“I can genuinely say that everyone I talk to around town is excited about the Field Days beginning,” Rotary FNQ Field Days Site Coordinator Nina Akselsen-Grant said.
“A lot of planning has gone into making this a wonderful event, and I know we are looking forward to seeing lots of people come through the gates from Wednesday.”
At 9.30am a 4WD off road interactive demonstration will kickstart today’s action from inside the main arena which will focus on safe recovery practices and winching.
Working machinery will also feature in the arena throughout the Field Days. Between 10-11am there are a host of activities to keep patrons busy including a rural fire brigade display and demonstration that will focus on caravanning, the popular tractor pull event and a Rotary business tent presentation.
At 11.30am a much-anticipated new feature of this year’s field days will take place as mental health advocate Mary O’Brien delivers her ‘Are you bogged mate’ presentation, with the purpose of raising issues centred around men’s mental health.
Some afternoon highlights include a quad bike discussion from 2pm and a boar buster feral pig trap demonstration from 3pm inside the main arena.
The Field Days has experienced tremendous growth in recent years with thousands of people coming from all over to attend the three-day event.
The Field Days runs from today (Wednesday, May 26) until 4pm this Friday afternoon. Gates open at 9am each day.
