With more than 99% of NSW still suffering the effects of drought, there’s never been a better time to get out and support our farmers.
The annual Tocal Field Days are back next weekend and event manager Wendy Franklin said it’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about life on the land.
“It can be a pretty tough gig to farm in this country and we want people to come and embrace it,” she told Newcastle Weekly.
“There’s a lot more to farming than people realise and also a lot more to Tocal Field Days than people realise.”
This year the event is themed around animals, with alpaca shearing, baby goat cuddling and a llama kissing booth all on the agenda, while the themed piglet races will be run across the weekend.
For the moment the race theme is shrouded in mystery, only to be revealed on the day.
“It is a bit more quirky,” Ms Franklin said.
“Every year when our piglets race, we’ve had a different theme – the royal wedding, football.
“We have more fun side to things – it’s not just having a pat [of an animal], where else can you go and kiss a llama?”
Aside from animal interactions, demonstrations and exhibitors, attendees will also be able to indulge in gourmet food, see exquisite crafts and buy produce direct from the farmers, including the popular Tilse’s apples.
While plenty of parking is available on-site, an hourly shuttle bus will also run from Maitland train station.
“The drought has been really tough and our farmers struggle on,” Ms Franklin said.
“Everyone needs farming – if you eat you need a farmer.
“Support the farms and come out and learn a little bit more.”
Tocal Field Days are running from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 May. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit tocalfielddays.com
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