Call to farmers to get involved in ‘Farm Day 09’

AUSTRALIAN farmers – across all states – are being asked to throw open their gates to a city family for a day in May as part of breaking down barriers to metropolitan understanding about modern farm practices. Farm Day provides unique hands-on experiences and insight, along with the ability to answer all those “where does that come from?” and “why do they do that?” questions – dispelling myths in the process. Farm Day will run over the May 30-31 weekend. “The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is proud to be an official supporter of this great initiative,” NFF President David Crombie said. “We know many Australian farmers are concerned about the perception of their sector in metropolitan mindsets, so this is their chance to get actively involved in turning those misconceptions around. “The NFF is pressing the case for modern farming and is already getting results. Independent market research shows that metropolitan perceptions of farming have improved dramatically. “There is much greater understanding and awareness of modern farming as environmentally-friendly and responsible, widespread recognition that farmers “do things differently today” and that the sector is ultra-efficient, technologically advanced and internationally competitive. “But our research also shows there is a gap in many people’s understanding regarding “what” modern farming is doing to achieve these successes and “how”. What better way than for people to witness it first-hand during Farm Day? “We encourage all Australian farmers – big and small – to take part in Farm Day and seize the opportunity to showcase where and how the high quality food and fibre our city counterparts enjoy every day actually comes from. “Around 300 metropolitan families participated in Farm Day last year. Survey results show that city people left farms with not only a greater understanding of how modern Australian farms operate, but more aware of the role farming plays in their daily lives – which will grow in the global food crisis.” Farm Day founder, Deb Bain, said the intent of Farm Day is to foster ‘fun, friendship and understanding’. By actually meeting a farming family and enjoying a day mucking in with the jobs on the farm, city families not only come away with an excellent insight into modern farming but with stories they’ll pass on to many of their city friends. “The farmers that take a day out and step back to view their business through the eyes of a city family come away with a more positive view of their industry,” Mrs Bain said. “It is an enlightening experience all round.” To learn more about, or to participate in Farm Day, farmers should visit the http://www.farmday.com.au[Farm Day website]. Alternatively, farmers can call 1300 367 036. Farm Day is also proudly supported by Meat and Livestock Australia. [ENDS]