The biannual event was held at the school on Friday September 7, with 650 students attending from 45 schools all over the country. That is 200 more students than in previous years.

“As always it was an excellent event,” said teacher and event organiser Sandra Heffernan.

“Giving students the opportunity to speak first hand to industry experts and also get that practical learning experience, I think that’s the big highlight.”

Students travelled from as far away as Bega to be involved with 60 workshops.

The 115 presenters also in attendance had travelled far and wide too – the farthest having traversed 11 hours from New England.

“The precision agriculture presenters travelled the longest,” said Ms Heffernan.

“They were very well received by the students. All of the presenters were outstanding, very encouraging to the students, receptive to their questions.

“Some had taken down students’ names to offer future apprenticeships and job opportunities, so it really was a very valuable opportunity for both.”

No noticeable dampener was cast on the event, despite the current uncertainly surrounding the agriculture industry.

“Students got to see that even with though the drought has been a struggle, there are still support systems in the primary industries and a secure, viable future does still exist in agriculture,” said Ms Heffernan.

This year’s event was principally sponsored by Junee Lamb. 

“[We] can’t do this without the support of so many in the community,” said Ms Heffernan.

“The enthusiasm of the presenters is critical to success, but secondary to that without the support and dedication of the school and wider community we just wouldn’t be able to do it.

“We have been really blessed to have that local support from Junee Lamb.

“Their assistance in making this happen, their support for regional education, it means students don’t have to go to the big cities to get this kind of experience.”