The best of South Australia’s primary industries will be on display at the Royal Adelaide Show, building on its triumphant post-COVID return last year.

One of South Australia’s most loved annual events, the Show brings the country and our regions to the city for all to appreciate. Far more than simply the fun-of-the-fair, the Show is an educational experience, focused on the importance of agriculture and the vital role it plays in the state.

Agriculture and agribusiness generated revenue of $17.3 billion in 2021-22, an increase of 12.3% compared to the previous year, now representing 51% of South Australia’s merchandise exports.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a long-term Show sponsor, and this year, in partnership with the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society, is presenting the interactive ‘Aggie’s Farm’ in Stirling Angas Hall.

Part of the hall has been transformed into a child-sized working farm, teaching two-to-10 year-olds about agriculture, from crop to shop.

A free activity that will take children through stations including a (faux) chicken coop, apple orchard, beehive, and strawberry and potato patches onto the farmers’ market where produce collected along the way can be exchanged for farm dollars. The farm dollars can then be exchanged for an animal keyring – for painting at a craft station.

With 24,481 competitive entries and approximately 4,500 animals coming through the gates over the nine days, people are being asked to be biosecurity aware:
*wear clean clothes and footwear,
*stay away from animals and livestock areas when unwell,
*observe and follow directional signage
*wash hands before and after coming into close contact with an animal.

An integral part of the Show’s calendar of events is the Rural Ambassador Award to be held on Tuesday 5 September, highlighting the importance of agricultural shows in regional communities.

Supported by the State Government through PIRSA for 20 years the Rural Ambassador Award recognises young leaders aged between 20 and 30 who are committed to their local show and community.

The winner will be presented with a study tour designed to benefit them and their local show.

Between 450,000 and 500,000 people are expected through the gates this year to confirm the Royal Adelaide Show’s status as the highlight of South Australia’s event calendar.

More information about what’s on at the Royal Adelaide Show can be found at www.theshow.com.au or to find out when your local country show is, visit www.sacountryshows.com

Quotes

Attributable to Katrine Hildyard

For 184 years, the Show has brought our rural and metropolitan communities together. It is an iconic South Australian event, much loved by so many South Australians.

We have a very strong rural economy with each region focusing on its unique point of difference. From the pastoral areas that grow grass-fed beef and wool, to the intensive horticultural, cropping and wine districts and regional seafood centres, we have a well-earned reputation for premium quality produce, all on display at the Show.

The Show is the perfect opportunity for families to learn more about where our food comes from. Aggie’s Farm promises to be a highlight, especially for young children who will be able to see, touch and feel the cycle that drives our agricultural industries and puts food on tables.

I wish the Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of SA all the very best and thank everyone who has worked so hard to bring it to life year after year. I have no doubt the Show will once again be a celebration of South Australia’s agriculture as well as a great day out for the whole family. See you all at the Show!

Attributable to Will Rayner, CEO Royal Adelaide Show

The Royal Adelaide Show remains a proud celebration of the excellence and expertise of our incredible primary producers and regional communities almost 200 years since the Society held our first agricultural show in a large paddock off North Terrace.

Where else but the Show would you get to experience agricultural activities, animal encounters, competitions and rural skill exhibitions all sitting side by side with a vibrant carnival atmosphere.

We look forward to welcoming visitors from across Australia to Wayville over the next nine days to connect, learn, compete, celebrate and be inspired.