Life on the land

ARE you one of the many families that have moved to the beautiful Gippsland region in search of a better way of life? Are you a farmer, or even a small land holder, keen to discover the how-to on environmentally-sound farming principles and the latest in farm technology?
It’s time to mark your diary for 22 and 23 November for a small farm expo to be held at the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit. It’s for landowners of all types – from full on farmers to market gardeners to happy families who have recently embraced the charms and advantages of rural life.
“So many city folk are embarking on a sea-change or a tree-change, but when they move into their country home complete with their plot of land, they are often at a loss managing their property,” said circuit managing director Fergus Cameron, who also runs a farm.
“Rural life is wonderful but it possesses challenges, and we felt we had the capacity and contacts to create an expo that would really help people.
“Many experts from our community and local government authorities have agreed to attend and will be sharing their expertise with our patrons,” Mr Cameron said.
Expo organisers have recruited the Bass Landcare Network to speak on sustainable farming practices and Alternative Growing Solutions to provide agricultural advice.
The reaction to the inaugural expo has been very positive with many local companies and organisations committed and exhibiting the latest farm machinery, implements, power equipment and cutting edge farm technology.
There will be a strong focus on organic and sustainable living products, with everything from worm farms to solar lights being featured.
On the lifestyle side, there will be exhibitors covering a range of leisure pursuits from water sports, and camping, to four-wheel driving, health and tourism.
As in all good rural communities, local produce will also be celebrated.
“We have everything from olive farmers to nut growers attending and people will be able to experience and taste the product of our land. Hopefully sampling some of region’s fine food and wine will inspire attendees to turn their plot of land, no matter how small or large, into a productive space,” Mr Cameron said.
The Small Farm Expo will be housed in the 2000 square metre pavilion usually used for motorsport expos with external sites being north and west of the pavilion. A dedicated rough terrain area will for the inaugural Small Farm + Lifestyle Expo,
allowing for quad bikes, gators, Ag bikes and 4WD vehicles to be put through their paces and a working farm area will showcase the latest farm machinery, tractors, slashers and ride-on mowers.
Patrons are expected to come from south and central Gippsland, and the south-east suburbs of Melbourne.
The expo will be open from 9am to 5pm each day, and will cost $10 for adults – entry is free for children 17 and under accompanied by an adult.
For further information go to www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au