Albury is halfway through hosting the biggest sheep industry convention in Australia and Rodney Watt is running on adrenaline.
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For the Central West NSW stud ram operator who took on the role of organising committee chairman it is the end of a long build-up, which started pretty much after the curtain fell on LambEx in Adelaide two years ago.
And he is in high demand.
“I’ve been flat out all morning,” Mr Watt says as he grabs a juice in one of the committee rooms at Lauren Jackson Sports Centre.
But his effort has paid off – big time.
With more than 1000 registered attendees across the two days of panel discussions, presentations, farm tours and displays of all things sheep and lamb related in Albury, the venue and Mr Watt’s committee have passed with flying colours.
“It’s all going brilliantly really, couldn’t be happier, and the facility is tremendous,” he says as he reaches to shake another hand.
The feedback has been glowing, better than the last one for sure, say people who were also in Adelaide.
Meat and Livestock Australia is a major backer of LambEx and the peak industry body was front and centre, soaking up southern Riverina hospitality.
”Albury’s the heartland of lamb and we’re happy to be part of it,” says chef Sam Burke who works with the MLA to develop new ways of preparing meat-based meals.
Border agriculture consultant Chris Mirams sits on the MLA board and added his local knowledge to the organising committee.
“I think it has been fantastic. Ros Walls has done a wonderful job rallying together the chamber of commerce and council, the pubs, restaurants, and having the flags down the main street, really making LambEx a great celebration for the city for a number of weeks,” he says.
The 1000 registered visitors plus partners were expected to add about $2 million to the Border economy, and positive memories are likely to have benefits for years to come.
It generated new work for Border businesses such as Barlens and Fiona Landy Catering, showcased the skills of the Fruit Fly Circus and the wit and humour of John Walker – and shows Australia that Albury is a viable option as a major events destination.
“All the local businesses that have contributed, including the council, to making it a success have been extraordinarily professional,” Mr Mirams says.
“Albury has come up with the goods. The meal was fantastic, the venue was fantastic and because it’s in a regional centre it has got a wonderful regional feel about it.
“This could cement Albury in the minds of those institutions that are looking at running those big agriculture events that we can do it really, really well.”
