Agricultural shows play a vital role in stimulating agriculture and local economies in rural areas. These shows were established decades ago to evaluate the quality of agricultural products, including livestock, while fostering recognition and community spirit.
This was the message from Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo, at their annual Agri-Expo Members’ Show Meeting. The event, held on 6 June 2025 at Houw Hoek outside Grabouw, is a long-standing tradition focused on training and development for agricultural show representatives.
This year, 60 delegates from across the Western and Northern Cape attended the meeting to exchange ideas and return to their local shows with fresh inspiration.
“This year’s programme focused on the important roles of breeders, judges and officials, and how getting the basics right can help secure a sustainable future for agricultural shows,” Milford said.
HONOURING LIFELONG CONTRIBUTIONS
Agri-Expo presented lifetime achievement awards to three individuals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the agricultural show industry and their long-standing association with Agri-Expo:
- Dr Dirk Troskie, who played a leading role in strengthening the relationship between shows and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture over many years;
- Pierre Vlok, one of the most respected show judges in the industry, with a deep love for sheep and wool; and
- Dries Wiese, a well-known stud breeder and judge with an unmatched passion for the show sector.
AWARDS FOR SHOW EXCELLENCE
Agri-Expo also acknowledged shows that excelled in the following categories:
- Innovation: Riversdal Show
- Quality Presentation: Robertson Show
- New Entrant – Development: Beaufort West Show
- Community Involvement: Loxton Show
- Youth Development: Swartland Show
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS FROM EXPERTS
Speakers at the event included:
- Dries Wiese, former president of the Dorper Breeders’ Society, who highlighted the importance of exhibitors, community involvement and participation by women;
- Jurie Wessels, a well-known announcer and judge, who discussed the practical needs and processes relevant to judges and officials; and
- Anneke de Klerk and Annaline van Wyk, board members of the Clanwilliam Show, who shared how they successfully turned their show around and reconnected with the local community.
For more information about Agri-Expo Members’ Shows, click here.
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ISSUED BY: AGRI-EXPO
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ISABEAU MEDIA
Isabeau Joubert Botha
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