22nd May 2007FOR most city families, a day on a farm exploring the way modern farmers work is not usually on the weekend itinerary, however, “Farm Day” – which is going national on May 26 and 27 – aims to change that.
Farm Day will offer a rare opportunity for metropolitan families to get a taste of life on the land and discover for themselves where everything we commonly eat, drink and wear comes from.
“Farm Day 2007 is an exciting initiative to build better understanding among all Australians about what really goes on in 21st Century farming,” National Farmers Federation (NFF) president, David Crombie, said.
“With the theme of “Fun, Friendship and Understanding”, the connection forged between families – metropolitan and rural – can provide a valuable and rewarding opportunity to see, touch and hear first-hand how today’s farms operate and learn how farming affects our everyday lives.”
The national roll-out of Farm Day follows the highly successful inaugural Victorian Farm Day last year when more than 150 families from Melbourne and rural Victoria participated. This year, the NFF has joined with Meat and Livestock Australia to take the program Australia-wide, aiming for 300 families to participate over two days in May.
“Farmers will be only too willing to answer the `how do they do that?’ and `where does that come from?’ questions,” Mr Crombie said.
“And show and interact with families around the farm’s operations, explain the new ways farmers go about their modern businesses, and also share a bit of that famous country hospitality.
“The NFF congratulates Farm Day organiser and Victorian wool and lamb producer, Deb Bain, on winning the title of 2007 Victorian Rural Woman of the Year, recognising her voluntary efforts in fostering a greater understanding of contemporary Australian farmers and their businesses through direct engagement with families from the city.”
* To find out more about Farm Day visit: www.farmday.com.au