FARMERS at this year’s Mallee Machinery Field Days were optimistic about the season ahead, despite a dry start to winter.

Many machinery dealers reported an increase in confidence and optimism.

Brim farmer Brad Martin said for many growers, going to field days was like being a little kid in a lolly shop.

“It’s good coming to Speed – it’s a great design for the field days and it’s easy to get around,” he said.

Mr Martin said crops were looking good so far this year.

“I’m pretty happy with everything,” he said,

“The rain forecast at the moment is positive.

“I think we are in a lucky neck of the woods though this year – we had a dry June but July was average.

“Things aren’t looking too bad.”

Belle-Vue Trading spare parts manager Tom Isma said the good start to the season had improve farmers’ interest in machinery.

“There was probably more interest than what there was in previous years,” he said.

“Drought really kills you, but hopes are high for another good year. A lot more people are looking at options and we’ve had another good soaking now.”

Hausler’s group service manager Jason Hannigan said farmers seemed to be upbeat at the field days, but many were hoping for rain on Wednesday.

“This week is crunch time really for rain,” he said.

“But generally people are optimistic about the season.”

O’Connors Farm Machinery’s Nicholas Clements said the field days was busy for the machinery dealer.

“We had a few demonstrations and numbers picked up throughout the event,” he said.

“Confidence is definitely boosted again this season.

“There is more urea going out now, showing that confidence is up.”