Article by Jessica Carey – Warwick Show Society and current Showgirl
Under a large shady tree on a gorgeous Spring afternoon in November, over seventy people gathered on the Warwick Show and Rodeo Society grounds for a long lunch to celebrate the dedicated Australian Farmers event for National Agriculture Day. A south easterly breeze kept us cool whilst sipping on a refreshing beverage and sharing laughs with friends new and old. ‘Pizza, Pasta and Prosecco in the Paddock’ was a celebration of our regions farmers and local produce on Saturday 21st November 2020.
Guests were tantalised by an exquisite Italian menu with lashings of local flavour created by Chef Youuseff Ben Touati. Working alongside was David McMahon a 4th generation farmer from McMahon Brothers Orchard in Pozieres, based on the Granite Belt. Combining their love of farming with a passion for cooking they created an experience which showcased over ten local producers. It was not just a meal we shared, it was a celebration of the product, a celebration of the resilience, diversity and hard work of not only the farmers but the whole community. Their key focus is bigger than the food – their focus to deliver an experience to be remembered.
It was an afternoon of country hospitality, scrumptious food, community connection for our locals and for our metro neighbours to see what is on offer. Talented duo Nine Year Sister – multi award winning independent singer songwriters from the Granite Belt created a relaxed atmosphere and event set up by DD Event Hire, who created an exquisite country chic feel for the day.
No event happens without the businesses that support and collaborate behind the scenes. It is the backbone of a thriving and interdependent community and the cornerstone of the Southern Downs and Granite Belt Region. Conversation between farmers and community at events like this one is designed to better connect Australians with agriculture and the people behind it. More than ever this year I believe we are feeling grateful for the beautiful food and fibre our farmers produce.
As Warwick Showgirl for 2020 with a great love for my region, it was an honour to promote and support bringing the community together after a year of challenges. All we could of hoped for was that everyone headed home with a happy heart and satisfied belly. I was sitting right there alongside having a chinwag, eating pizza and devouring affogatos. I believe here is no better way to give thanks than a collaborative event of food, having a laugh and celebrating the heart of our country.
Cheers to our Aussie Farmers and gathering in the paddock to celebrate.
Jessica Carey – Social Media
Instagram – @_jessicacarey
Facebook – ARISE with Jessica Carey
Warwick Show and Rodeo Society
Facebook – Warwick Showgirl and Rural Ambassador
National Farmers Federation media release can be found here: https://www.therural.com.au/story/7017946/more-than-150-events-set-for-national-ag-day/