2025’s AgQuip by AgTrader may have been a little soggy, but as the rain tumbled down at Gunnedah, 44,193 visitors soaked up a range of new attractions with the AgTrader Tractor Games sponsored by Kia proving a smash hit, University of New England’s career panels proved popular with aspiring agriculture students and exhibitors reporting positive results from the event.

One of the exhibitors thrilled by the crowds’ attendance was Shayne Horsfall, from Stockline Trailers at Lake Cargelligo. “The Tuesday was much busier this year compared to last. Even when the rain came in on Wednesday, there was still a lot of genuine interest in our trailers" Mr Horsfall said.

Thomas Thorncroft, of Uniplan from Armidale, said "We enjoyed a significant increase in enquiry over the first day and a half in our modular housing, especially our worker accommodations. We received some strong leads and genuine interest in our products."

AgTrader, who sponsored this year’s event, has already seen a lift in business off the back of AgQuip. With more than 800 exhibitors and 2,500 brands on display, it was agreat opportunity to bring together buyers and sellers alike.

“As a major sponsor our return on investment goes beyond sales, it’s about being part of an event that brings farmers, families and communities together. Seeing people connect, explore the latest in machinery and technology, and walk away with positive experiences is just as important as the commercial return,” AgTrader’s Keith Falconer said.

AgQuip 2025 was also the platform for a number of big product launches, and for CASE IH it doesn’t come any bigger than the Steiger 785 Quadtrac which was unveiled for the first time anywhere in the world. The new Steiger model is now the most powerful in theCase IH range, with the horsepower boosted by almost 10% over the previous model, offering increased power for farmers who are looking to get even more out of their businesses.

“To be able to bring this exciting new tractor to Australia and unveil it at our largest field day event was an amazing opportunity. AgQuip visitors were the first in the world to see this latest evolution of the Steiger range, and really get a sense of what it can offer to Australian farming operations,” said Justin Bryant, Case IH ANZ High Horsepower Product Manager.

Full of skills, smiles and a few spills, the first ever Tractor Games, sponsored by Kia, saw some close scores as Case IH, New Holland and John Deere tractors scored some goals, rolled some precision bowls and flattened some ten pins.

Behind the wheel, guest drivers included Editor of The Land newspaper, Samantha Townsend; Jaiden Drought, President of the New Zealand Tractor and Machinery Association and Harrison Hunkin, a prominent agricultural journalist and media personality.

While there was a lot of fun, Sam Townsend said the new event had a promising future at field days because not only did it entertain the crowds but was an informative way to display the capabilities of the machines for those looking to invest in a new tractor.

“I had an absolute blast - it really tested my skills in the driver’s seat. What impressed me most was how well the tractors performed in terms of their maneuverability and responsiveness to perform challenges; like rolling a hay bale accurately enough to level ten pin bowling pins or in this case fuel barrels. Jaiden and Harrison also enjoyed the event, though I’ll happily claim the title of best operator over the three days,” Townsend laughed.

The University of New England’s (UNE) career panels, moderated by Australian Community Media’s (ACM) General Manager of Events, Craig Chapman were an inspiring introduction for those interested in pursuing a future in all aspects of agriculture.

“The Talk to an Expert series was a brilliant way to get an insight into how a career in agriculture can lead to positive change – not just for students, but for the industry, communities and the sector globally. It was great to hear our panel members talk about how today's students can become the future leaders and stewards responsible for leading agricultural and environmental practices for generations to come,” Mr Chapman said.

For media enquiries, please contact: Shaun Devitt at Seftons on 0400 906 451 or shaun.devitt@seftons.com.au