RELATED: Community spirit shines
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
PHOTO GALLERY: Elmore Field Days 2015
Strong winds, high temperatures and the threat of bushfires kept crowds away from the Elmore Field Days on Tuesday.
The mercury hit 36 degrees in the afternoon of the first day of the event, with some farmers electing to stay home as the fire danger was declared extreme.
Wind gusts of more than 80 km/h in Elmore exacerbated the fire danger and sent hats flying sailing from heads and tumbling across the event site.
Dogs took the opportunity to cool off in dams and stalls did a roaring trade in cold drinks.
Event president Frank Harney said he hoped a cool change on Wednesday would see people return to the field days.
"Naturally the weather has had an effect," he said.
"Numbers have definitely been down a bit but really why would you come out today in the heat and the wind when you could come tomorrow when it's cooler?"
The temperature in Elmore is forecast to reach a top of just 22 degrees on Wednesday.
The fire danger will be dropped from extreme to high.
Several exhibitors chose to shut up shop early as fires burned to the west of Elmore.
However Mr Harney said he believed visitor numbers would increase in the final two days of the event.
"We're quite confident we will have the usual crowds spread across the whole thing," he said.
Despite less than ideal conditions, he said the weather hadn't dampened enthusiasm.
"We've had a number of exhibitors tell us they've had really strong, genuine inquiry. They're rapt," he said.
The poor weather meant all in-paddock demonstrations were cancelled for the day.
Tuesday highlights included a vintage tractor parade, shearing demonstration and a presentation by Bendigo Community Health Services’ Cameron Cail on the dangers of drug and alcohol addiction. Representatives from AFL Victoria spoke about the importance of local football clubs.
Better Homes and Gardens presenter Jason Hodges will be at the field day today, giving demonstrations in do-it-yourself projects.
Gates open at 8.30pm. Entry is $18 for adults, $8 for secondary students and free for children under 12.