Crowds boost field days

The president of the 2015 Newdegate Machinery Field Days Ashley McDonald believes the future is looking bright for the event, which received a boost in crowds and exhibitors.

Last Wednesday and Thursday, key players in the agriculture industry congregated to showcase the latest in technology.

The field days were also a family affair, with free entry and free rides for children.

Popular events made their return, including the fashion parade, dog jumps and an array of art and craft stalls on display.

Crowds were up by several thousand this year, with 12,500 walking through the gates.

"We're still getting big numbers out here despite less people living out in the country," Mr McDonald said.

"It's up on last year by a couple of thousand, I think its because we've had two good years, potentially a third as long as the frost keeps away."

"I also think it's really a family-based affair now we've had free rides and free entry for kids."

Newdegate Field Days also showcased 36 new exhibitors, including businesses from the Eastern States making their debut.

The 100-year anniversary of the Anzacs landing in Gallipoli was also commemorated.

The Light Horse Brigade Troop were at the venue along with Australian military memorabilia showcased.

Mr McDonald paid credit to the committees and volunteers, who helped things run smoothly.

He also thinks the field days will continue to play a key role in the future.

"The future is bright especially since there has been a downturn in mining and agriculture has turned around; we are coming off the back of a couple of good years ... I feel that an agriculture boom is about to happen."