Minister praises efforts of Newdegate Field Days volunteers

5/9/01
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance has praised the volunteer efforts of the Newdegate community in preparation for the 29th annual Newdegate Machinery Field Days.
Mr Chance officially opened the popular event in the Wheatbelt centre today and praised the community's dedication and co-operative effort despite difficult conditions being experienced this season.
"In this the Year of the Volunteer, the time, effort and resources that are volunteered by the Newdegate community should be recognised and applauded as an example to us all," said Mr Chance, who is also Minister for the Wheatbelt.
"With more than 400 exhibitors attracting over 16,500 people from both Western Australia and interstate, this event grows in stature each year.
"It continues to provide invaluable industry support and information both to the companies which exhibit and the farmers and other visitors who attend."
Mr Chance said in preparation for this year's event, significant work had been done by members of the local community, including Newdegate Primary School students, who planted trees on the field day site in conjunction with the local conservation district committee.
Other community projects included installation of overhead power in the family interest pavilion, final fitout of the community recreation centre and refit and refurbishment of the site office kitchen.
"It is a tribute to the reputation of this show, and the work the community has put into it, that it continues to be one of the State's largest agricultural shows," the Minister said.
"I congratulate the organising committee, who have put together another outstanding event and play a valuable role in showcasing new developments and new equipment for our agricultural industries."
In opening the field days, Mr Chance acknowledged the main sponsors of the event - The Countryman newspaper, the Golden West Network, the Swan Brewery, the Commonwealth Bank, CSBP Future Farm and Dyson Jones Wool Marketing Services.
Media contact: Mike Marren 9213 6700