Pooncarie prepares to share ideas

The event, which will be in its ninth year in 2015, is held on alternate years to the Ag Fair, on the first weekend in May on odd years.

Chairperson Angus Whyte said it was an important one on the calendar for those in marginal areas.

The field days started in 1999 from an idea by local resident Patty Byrnes to showcase alternative industries for pastoral areas that had to deal with drought, downturn in prices and related issues.

"(At the time) Merino sheep and wool was tough and seasons weren't good," Mr Whyte said.

"People were looking at different options about what they could do, what they could run, to earn a living."

The biennial event has now grown - the committee expects about 100 exhibitors and between 1500 and 2000 people.

To qualify, exhibitors need to display products or services that ultimately help stimulate diversification, generate profit for the landholder or remove social isolation.

Local art-and-craft exhibits, government initiatives, health, education, environmental and social issues are all highlighted.

"We're open to all ideas; we encourage people to look at all ways they can make an income and stay on the land," Mr Whyte said.

Publicity officer Nicole Byrnes said a big drawcard this year will be the Royal Flying Doctor Service flight simulator.

“It’s a real coup to have the RFDS coming and it is important for our community to experience the simulator as an interactive session,” she said.

Mr Whyte said the RFDS would be one of the recipients of the Community Health Auction which takes place on the event stages with event sponsors and exhibitors donating products and services to go under the hammer.

“It’s a really fun auction, and everyone gets involved because we know all money raised helps support the wonderful health services that is provided to our township," he said.

Apart from exhibits, the competitions lined up include goat-dog trials and ladies trailer backing.

The tri-state blade shearing competition has a $1000 prize on offer.

Mr Whyte said visitors do not just look at static displays but have a chance to get involved.

Among the drawcards are the whip-cracking and Akubra hat competitions.

"We've quite a large whip-cracking competition, with the judges also giving whip crack displays. That's a wonderful art and very popular around here," Mr Whyte aid.

The Akubra hat competition is judged by the local state member.

"Every hat has got a story," Mr Whyte said.

The Mechanical & Blade Shearing Title is also popular, and is this year being organised by 2013 youth ambassador Courtney Wakefield.

Details at www.pooncariefieldday.com.au or view their facebook feed for a chance to win free entry on the day.