One of Central Queensland's best-known agricultural events, the Ag-Grow/Qmix Field Days in Emerald, has officially been placed on the market after almost 40 years of operation. The decision marks a significant turning point for one of Australia's largest regional agricultural and mining trade exhibitions, which has become a major economic and social event for the Central Highlands region.
Founded in the late 1980s, Ag-Grow has grown from a regional farming exhibition into a nationally recognised showcase for agriculture, mining, transport, machinery, livestock and rural innovation. Every year the event attracts hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors from across Queensland and interstate, providing businesses with an opportunity to demonstrate the latest equipment, technology and services while allowing producers to explore new products and industry developments.
The current owners have decided the time is right to pass the event to new operators who can continue expanding its success. While ownership may change, organisers hope the Ag-Grow brand will remain based in Emerald and continue supporting the region's agricultural and mining industries. The sale includes the event's established business, branding, intellectual property and operational systems, giving prospective buyers the opportunity to take over a well-established annual event with an existing customer base.
Ag-Grow has earned a reputation as far more than a trade show. It has become an important gathering for farmers, graziers, contractors, mining companies, machinery manufacturers and rural families. Visitors attend to inspect new tractors, harvesters, earthmoving equipment, livestock handling systems, irrigation technology, fencing products and mining innovations, while also enjoying entertainment, food vendors, horse sales, cattle competitions and community activities.
The event generates significant economic benefits for Emerald and the wider Central Highlands by increasing demand for accommodation, restaurants, transport services and local retailers. Hotels, caravan parks and hospitality businesses traditionally experience one of their busiest periods during the three-day exhibition, while local suppliers benefit from the influx of exhibitors and visitors.
Industry representatives believe the exhibition remains well positioned for future growth as Australia's agriculture, mining and critical minerals sectors continue expanding. They say the event's established reputation, strategic location and strong relationships with exhibitors provide a solid platform for future owners to build upon through innovation and new partnerships.
Despite the ownership transition, organisers have reassured exhibitors and visitors that the annual event will continue as planned. Supporters hope a successful sale will preserve Ag-Grow's legacy while allowing it to evolve with the changing needs of regional industries. After nearly four decades of connecting rural communities with industry leaders, Ag-Grow remains one of Central Queensland's most important agricultural showcases and is expected to continue playing a significant role in the region's economy for years to come.
