WIMMERA Machinery Field Days organisers believe a strong harvest in the region will lead to more optimism and spending at this year’s event.

The 56^th annual event at Longerenong will be on March 6, 7 and 8.

Field days manager Murray Wilson said works were well underway to prepare the site for an influx of machinery and equipment from throughout Australia.

“A solid harvest in the Wimmera reflects on a big spike in economic growth for the entire region,” he said.

“We are excited to be able to host the field days and know the optimism and financial activity in the region should have a positive impact on the event and the coming year.”

The field days will feature more than 500 exhibitors across more than 1000 sites.

Mr Wilson said about 20,000 people would pass through the gates over the three days. 

He said the event would generate millions of dollars in trade across the agricultural industry and rural business. 

“Conservative estimates suggest the three days generate well over $50 million in direct trade with more than $200 million dollars of machinery and agricultural equipment on display,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the field days was the region’s biggest event. “Large scale agriculture trade shows such as the Wimmera Machinery Field Days provide a unique forum for people and business to gather,” he said.

“People can discuss farm technology and new developments, create networks, socialise, rekindle friendships and business relationships and stay in touch with industry advances.”

The day isn’t just about broadacre farming though, with a range of family-friendly entertainment throughout the three days.

 Mr Wilson said a huge drawcard was always motocross stunt riders from Factory FMX.

“With the regions strong connection to motocross and a first class track nearby it is a great fit for the field days,” he said.

Other special features include a vintage Tractorcade, cooking demonstrations, kids activities and fashion parades.

“The Tractorcade was a huge drawcard when we last ran it in 2012 – it was an extremely popular feature capturing the attention of thousands of patrons everyday,” Mr Wilson said.

“Each afternoon the participating tractors and machinery will roll out and complete a lap of the central field days site allowing patrons to see the machines in the Tractorcade as the drive past

“There will be a number of machines and some might be up to 60 to 80 years old.”