‘Fantastic’ Ag Days draws estimated 37,400

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This article was published 19/01/2024 (609 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba Ag Days wrapped up on Thursday with organizers declaring it a resounding success as it welcomed an impressive turnout of attendees from across Canada and the United States.

General manager Kristen Phillips estimated that 37,400 people attended Canada’s largest indoor farm show that packed Brandon’s Keystone Centre for three days.

Phillips said the event was charged with a positive atmosphere and robust engagement from attendees.

“It has truly been a wonderful experience because the three days stood out as fantastic days, with exhibitors brimming with excitement. It has been such a great crowd, interested in buying what everybody has here,” Phillips said.

“Our overall satisfaction is evident, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome.”

The event hosted 63 speakers, contributing to numerous well-attended talks and sessions. The average attendance per session was around 250, with some talks, such as the one featuring commentator David Frum, filling venues with 750 attendees.

The organizers aimed to bring in speakers who relate to the industry and encourage people to think beyond their daily experiences and what they achieved, Phillips said.

“Having someone like Frum with insights into geopolitics is fantastic,” she said. “It helps attendees look beyond Manitoba or the Prairies and prompts us to think globally, taking an international perspective.”

The show also saw an increase in exhibitors from the previous year, with 550 participating, surpassing the previous year’s 537 — and one of them stood out.

Bourgault Industries Ltd. received the prestigious “Best in Show” award, with Phillips commending its consistent participation, collaborative approach and the presentation of a stellar farm display.

“They adhere to all the rules, seek permission before taking any actions, and present an excellent farm display that truly embodies the essence of 100 per cent pure ag,” she said. “A big congratulations to them for earning the accolade.”

The Innovation Showcase featured 32 innovative products or services dispersed throughout the centre, each labelled as a showstopper.

Like other events, the show faced challenges despite its success, including adverse weather affecting the move-in process and flight cancellations.

“We had to switch a couple of speakers to virtual, but all things considered, eight out of the 10 speakers scheduled for flights made it,” Phillips said. “We are farmers and resilient when it comes to weather. You can’t control the weather, so you do with what you got.”

Reflecting on the event, Phillips acknowledged the continuous pursuit of improvement, noting there is always an opportunity to do some things better.

The organizing committee plans to debrief and strategize for an even more substantial show next year, showcasing their innovative and out-of-the-box thinking. The 48th Manitoba Ag Days is scheduled for Jan. 21-23, 2025. In the meantime, you can stay in touch on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok @mbagdays.

As the curtains close on Manitoba Ag Days 2024, Phillips said farmers and stakeholders should look forward to an optimistic outlook for the 2024 growing season, recognizing the interconnectedness of a thriving agricultural community that benefits both producers and exhibitors.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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