By Michael Doran
Over two days, the 49th Wandin-Silvan Field Days again attracted large numbers of visitors and over 160 exhibitors. The pathways were crowded with organisers estimating attendance to be more than 4,500.
President of the organising committee, William Anker, said the show continued to attract new exhibitors, both locally and from interstate.
“We have had a lot of interest from new exhibitors, especially for the Lifestyle and Information Pavilion, a new feature for this year,” he said.
“The pavilion has really helpful exhibits, like government departments, drones, spas right though to handmade soaps and homewares. About 20 percent of our exhibitors are here for the first time so demand for space is really healthy.”
“Also we get a lot of help from the community and we are proud that we share the gate takings with the volunteers who provide the service,” he said. “This year it is Silvan, Seville and Gruyere CFA and Wandin East Badminton Club.”
Saturday is family day and it ranks highly on the annual list of things to do in the area. One family taking it all in were the Johnson’s from Wandin and mum Sarah said “Will and Angus look forward to this day all year.”
“This is a big day on the kid’s calendar and they want to be here bang on 8.30am. It is a great community and family event that brings everyone together for a fun day,” she said.
Whilst this year has been another great success, plans are now underway for the 50-year anniversary in 2019.
“It’s amazing that a little event like this can be around for 50 years and we are really looking to making next year a special occasion,” William Anker said.
