‘Pinnaroo has got your back’

Finished ahead of Kimba, Parndana, Kapunda and Woodside
70 towns were nominated with 5,000 public votes
SA agribusiness industry generated $14.1 billion during the 19-20 fiscal year

The South Australia Regional Showcase, an annual event that recognises regional communities, was held recently having been postponed from November due to the pandemic.

Pinnaroo, almost 250km east of Adelaide’s CBD, beat four other finalists to be crowned the top agriculture town in South Australia.

The other finalists were Kimba, Parndana, Kapunda and Woodside.

In total there were 70 town nominations, 5,000 public votes and visits to the five finalist towns by the independent judging panel.

The panel remarked that the finalists were ‘worthy contenders’ with all five excelling in agriculture practices, committed to developing their respective regions and displaying incredible community spirit.

“As a farmer said during the judges’ visit, ‘Pinnaroo has got your back’ and I think that really captures the spirit of this small town and the importance of agriculture to its economy,” said David Basham, the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.

“The Ag Town of the Year award recognises towns that demonstrate excellence in agriculture – encouraging growth in our primary industries and demonstrating leadership in this sector.”

The South Australian agribusiness industry generated $14.1 billion in 2019-20 and led to the creation of tens of thousands of jobs, says the South Australian government.

The industry could be described as testing, especially with recent seasons resulting in poor output.

“It’s good to have had a handy cropping season last year, stock prices up and a huge horticulture industry in the Pinnaroo region adding to the mix,” said Adrian Pederick, the Member for Hammond.

“Pinnaroo certainly deserves this award especially in relation to operating with the challenges of a cross-border community in dealing with COVID-19. This award highlights the legendary resilience of the Mallee. Congratulations Pinnaroo.”

Awards were also presented to various regional organisations, businesses and initiatives as part of the regional showcase: