The field days will run from Wednesday to Friday opposite Warrnambool Cheese and Butter in Allansford.

Warrnambool’s John Brown will display his 1909 Foden steam traction engine over the three days, giving patrons a glimpse of agricultural life from more than a century ago.

Mr Brown said the machine was first purchased by the Shire of Barrabool in about 1910 for stone crushing and roadworks.

After several other owners, his late father Jack purchased the machine and the pair completed its restoration. 

“It was really in its working clothes before that,” Mr Brown said. He said he admired the unique operation of the steam machinery.

“I enjoy the silence and the simplicity of the operation of steam machinery as well as being able to still use something well over 100 years old.” Sungold Field Days committee member Eddie White said Jack Brown had wanted to see a steam engine at the field days.

“We’re helping to make that a reality now,” Mr White said. “I believe it will take a lot of the older generations back to their early days and it’s a chance for some of the young ones to see how things were done back then.”

Chairman Tony Rea said 25 new exhibitors would attend this year’s event, offering products including gourmet preserves, medical services and agricultural equipment.

There will also be 30 exhibits of new products. 

Highlights will include musicians Kayla Dwyer and Chooka Williams entertaining diners in the NAB gourmet marquee.

“At 10.30am every day we will see the vintage car, tractor and truck procession around the field days’ site which proved very popular last year for the first time,” he said. Exhibitor awards will be announced at 2.30pm on Wednesday. 

Mr Rea said a courier service would be available for the first time to carry small goods to the car park for patrons.

kellie.scott@fairfaxmedia.com.au