Feature Exhibit – Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance
Its full steam ahead with the planning of the 69th Australian National Field Days (ANFD), proudly sponsored by Cabonne Council.
Today Chairman Mr Sam Connell announced that the Feature Exhibit for the 2022 event would be Hemp. He is excited that the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance (AIHA) has come on board to be the centre piece of the exhibition.
“We are focused on the role of agriculture and its associated industries to highlight the importance of a vibrant primary industries sector to Australia, its economy and its well-being. Together, showcasing the strength, vitality, and diversity of our local primary industries. The Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance have taken the next step and in the field of value-adding that is so important to development and prosperity,” Mr Connell said.
“The Australian National Field Days is very proud to be in partnership with AIHA in the presentation of the Feature Exhibit. Planning is well under way and the 2022 Feature Exhibit promises to be both truly spectacular and informative. The presentation will allow visitors to follow the progress of raw materials from the paddock through an innovative, imaginative and interactive journey,” he said.
The purpose of the Alliance is to represent businesses and organisations involved in industrial hemp and associated products at a national level, to develop and grow the Australian industry. There are also various Industrial Hemp Associations in several States in Australia, some of which are members of the AIHA. The AIHA operates State Chapters in Queensland and Victoria.
The AIHA (www.hempalliance.org.au) is run by its members and operates in the areas of food, building, composites, textiles and medicinal cannabis. James Vosper (President of AIHA) said “We are honoured to be invited to be the feature exhibit at this important event. Hemp is such a versatile plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Visitors will be able to see how hemp is used in construction and how the plant is grown and processed. There will be opportunities to sample hemp foods, drinks and cosmetics. For those interested in cultivation there will be talks given by farmers that have grown hemp, under licence, in New South Wales”.
The ANFD Education Committee Chair, Mrs Kerry Wickson said “This year the Feature Exhibit is industrial hemp, an old crop with modern day uses”.
Hemp the ‘multi-faceted crop’ which is used in a variety of ways- clothing, building material, insulation, livestock feeds, biofuels, and the sequestration of carbon, which is of particular interest with climate change.
“Our line-up of vibrant, engaging, and informative speakers will cover a huge range of topics associated with industrial hemp. Kevin Wortes will be covering ‘Crop Establishment’ and Nik Henry will be talking on ’A farmers Journey’- his own journey and experiences” she said
Dr. Andew Rawson will be looking at soil needs for hemp production and carbon sequestration and the rehabilitation of derelict land.
Mrs Wickson said “For the horse fraternity always interested in new research and its application across all disciplines, all will be revealed on ‘Hemp Horseshoes’ by Dr. Mark Greathead.
Arthur Wajs, will be presenting a segment on horse nutrition and the use of hemp as a stable bedding.
All in all, hemp can provide something for everyone”.
The Australian National Field Days will be held at the Borenore site from Thursday October 20 to Saturday 22 October 2022. ENDS