Penola in the running for coveted award

Penola is one of three towns in the running for the South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year Award after being named as a finalist in the coveted competition.

Burra and Kimba are the other contenders.

Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll was thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase the diverse town as part of the campaign.

“We are incredibly proud of Penola being named a finalist in the Ag Town of the Year Awards and of course we think we are hands down winners,” Mayor Noll said.

“We can’t wait to host the judges and show them around our beautiful town, home to Penola’s own children’s agricultural education character George the Farmer, and so many other agriculture industries.

“Penola is a diverse farming community, rich with passionate and innovative leaders in primary industries, viticulture and agriculture and deserves to be celebrated for everything it has achieved.”

Selected by a panel of independent judges, the three towns will be visited next month as part of the judging process, with one ultimately proclaimed the South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year for 2024.

Now in its sixth year, the Agricultural Town of the Year Award recognises South Australian towns that are excelling in agricultural practices and the flow on effects to a township and community.

The award highlights the vital role that agriculture plays in the regional landscape in building regional communities.

This year a record 73 towns were nominated from around the state with more than 3600 public votes cast.

Located in the Clare Valley, Burra is known for its rich history and adaptability. The town of 1100 people has a reputation for producing high quality sheep and wool and for its contributions to broadacre farming, pastoral activities, and livestock production.

Kimba is one of the major wheat producing areas in South Australia and a renowned hub for grains transport. The town of 1300 people is situated halfway across Australia on the Eyre Highway and boasts a strong dedication to innovation, growth and regional development.

South Australian Minister for Regional Development Clare Scriven congratulated all three towns on reaching this stage of the competition.

“The Agricultural Town of the Year Award provides a fantastic opportunity for our state to celebrate and reflect on the strong contributions and unique stories of our regional towns,” she said.

Wudinna, on the Eyre Peninsula, won the title last year in recognition of the town’s leadership in the agriculture sector including agricultural education for local children and young people and for its current and relevant farmer-driven research and development.

The winner will be announced at the Regional Showcase Awards Celebration Evening on October 24.