AgFest: Tasmania’s Agricultural Gem That Keeps Growing

AgFest Review: From Small Seeds to Towering Success

Almost 50 years ago, a group of passionate young volunteers kicked off what would become one of Tasmania’s most treasured agricultural events when they started AgFest. The event began as a small two-day gathering at Symmons Plains, hosting just 111 exhibitors and welcoming 9,000 visitors. Fast-forward to today, and it’s grown into a vibrant festival that draws tens of thousands each year to the purpose-built site in Carrick.

AgFest has flourished without a single dollar of government funding and thrives thanks to community spirit, corporate sponsors, and ticket sales. Funds go straight back into improving the site with better infrastructure, toilets, power, roads, and more.

Young Locals With Big Hearts

AgFest isn’t just an event; it’s a labour of love. It is a testament to the next generation’s dedication to agriculture and their community that the event is entirely organised by Rural Youth Tasmania, a team of volunteers with an average age of just 20. These young people volunteer months of work to bring AgFest to life—handling everything from planning to promotion with professionalism and pride.

So Much More Than Tractors and Tools

AgFest offers a showcase of agricultural equipment and offers a wide variety of activities like: beef tastings, local food stalls, horse demonstrations, live entertainment, handmade crafts, and vibrant community displays. Whether you’re a farmer, a family, or just someone curious about country life, there’s something for everyone.
A reoccurring favourite event is the Ag Artwear competition that blends agriculture with fashion. The competition features wearable creations made from farm materials. Many of the designs come from students, showing off the creativity and innovation of Tasmania’s youth.

Tim Bourke from Precision Agricultural Solutions (PAS) Tasmania looks forward to attending AgFest each year; “Agfest gives us the opportunity to showcase all our Topcon products and enhance our brand visibility. It is important to Tasmania as it brings together farmers, families and the broader community, fostering connections at the same time as promoting local Agriculture businesses”.

AgFest boasts a loyal, connected community that grows bigger and stronger every year. AgFest is certainly one event to mark in your calendar.