Agriculture remains at the heart of the Royal Melbourne Show

While research shows Australia's agricultural shows are in decline in a more competitive and demaning entertainment market, acting Victorian Premier Peter Ryan reiterated the importance of agriculture at the official launch the 157th Royal Melbourne Show yesterday (Saturday 22nd September).

Speaking at the Tastes of Victoria Pavillion, acting Premier Ryan said the Royal Melbourne Show was a stunning showcase of Victoria's food and agriculture sector, which was a vital part of the state's heritage, culture and economy.

He stated "since its humble beginnings as a ploughing competition in 1848, the Melbourne Show has been a testament to the efforts and strength of our agriculture sector.

"Agriculture is one of the state's key drivers and remains at the centre of Victoria's economy.

"Although the Show has expanded so much since its inception, the purpose stays the same to bring regional and metropolitan Victoria together to experience the very best our diverse state has to offer."

Acting Premier Ryan said event organisers were expecting to draw big crowds this
year, with attendance projected to reach 460,000 people over the eleven-day event, adding "the Show has a packed schedule that includes agricultural competitions and displays, rural lifestyle and leisure activities, entertainment, food, wine, horticulture, show bags, rides and many other highlights."

Acting Premier Ryan said the Tastes of Victoria Pavillion was a new initiative which celebrated the variety of fresh, local and seasonal specialty produce Victoria has to offer.

He concluded "the Tastes of Victoria Pavillion is a reflection of the growing food culture we have here in Victoria, and demonstrates the enormous range of quality produce our food industry delivers."

"I encourage all Victorians and visitors to the state to come to the Show and experience the exciting activities and sample the wonderful produce from our prime food producing regions."

Along with the Tastes of Victoria Pavillion, the 2012 Royal Melbourne Show is set to launch a Paddock to Plate-themed pavillion, an Australian Farmer of the Year award, and a My Backyard-themed precinct encouraging sustainable living practices.

The Royal Melbourne Show runs from 22nd September to 2nd October 2012 at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

The latest research on the performance of agricultural shows will be revealed in a feature in the September/October 2012 issue of Australasian Leisure Management.

For more information on The Royal Melbourne Show go to www.royalshow.com.au

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