Thousands have flocked to the first day of the 2019 Henty Machinery Field Days.
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And a permanent tribute to former deputy prime minister Tim Fischer, "who rarely missed a field days" was unveiled.
The new chairman Nigel Scheetz said the board of directors, members and staff were sad the HMFD Patron wasn't with them this year.
"In the 1970s Tim, as a member for Sturt, was instrumental in lobbying the then agriculture minister Geoff Crawford to have the old travelling stock reserve, where we are standing today, made available for a purpose built field day site," he said.
"In 2001 he was bestowed with the honour of HMFD Patron and he rarely missed a field day.
"Even when his political career took him to such heights as deputy prime minister.
"We were fortunate to host Tim and Judy for lunch on opening day last year.
"In his own words 'for over five decades, Henty has imported knowledge and modern technology to farmers and this has helped boost farm productivity and sustainability'.
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"Today we unveil a plaque as a permanent tribute to Tim and his contribution and commitment to Henty Machinery Field Days."
Mr Scheetz said the annual event, which attracts more than 60,000 people to the field days site, was about "getting out and having a day off".
"Some farmers just look forward to this event so they can have a yarn to people they don't normally talk to, have a hamburger and just have a day or two off the farm," he said.
"We know farmers are doing it tough and that is why this event is so important.
"We are very mindful at Henty and those to the west of us the season has been very tough so our hearts go out to those guys and we know the need to look after each other.
"Checking in on each other and having a chat to other farmers and industry people about what's going on with you and your property is what it is all about."
Despite the tough conditions, Mr Scheetz said the organising committee were still expecting a large turnout.
"I think we are still going to have a great crowd, the general public and local contingent of people who always come back faithfully every year," he said.
Mr Scheetz said the field days has a "strong passion" for future farmers and said it was promising to see so many families at day one.
"We are passionate about seeing our younger generation keen to be a part of all areas of agriculture whether it be research, service or hands-on - we applaud every facet," he said.
"We just hope everyone enjoys the three days and checks in on one another."