Primex Field Days Relocating to Lismore Showgrounds in 2026: A Strategic Move for Regional Growth and Agricultural Innovation

The Australian Agricultural Field Days Association (AAFDA) is proud to share a major milestone in the evolution of one of our most iconic member events. After 41 years in Casino, NORCO Primex Field Days will relocate to the Lismore Showgrounds in 2026, marking a bold step forward for regional prosperity, agricultural innovation, and community resilience.

Scheduled to run from Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 May 2026, the move positions Lismore at the heart of Northern NSW’s agricultural future, while honouring Primex’s deep legacy and connection to the region.

“This isn’t just about changing locations, this is about backing a community that’s backing us,” said Bruce Wright, Director of NORCO Primex Field Days. “Lismore’s post-disaster recovery story aligns perfectly with Primex’s evolution. We’re not leaving our community behind; we’re leading it forward to where we can deliver the best outcomes for our farming and rural communities.”

Why Lismore? Strategic Advantages for Exhibitors and Attendees

The relocation is underpinned by strong regional leadership and a $4.7 million infrastructure investment at the Lismore Showgrounds. With over 80% of attendees travelling more than 50km to reach Primex, Lismore offers improved logistics, accommodation, and transport options to support future growth.

AAFDA members can expect:

• Expanded exhibitor facilities and layout
• Enhanced B2B and trade engagement across the agricultural supply chain
• Integration of AI and agtech innovation
• Inclusive accessibility for all attendees
• Stronger paddock-to-plate and sustainability programming

Economic Impact and Community Support

Primex has long been a proven economic powerhouse, generating over $1 billion in exhibitor sales and nearly $100 million in direct regional economic impact. The move to Lismore is projected to inject $4.5 million directly into the Lismore LGA and surrounds, supporting both recovery and long-term growth.

“We’ve long believed Primex belongs in Lismore,” said John Gibson, President of the North Coast National – Lismore Showgrounds. “This partnership will deliver enormous economic and cultural benefits during a crucial time in our city’s recovery and growth.”

The relocation has received overwhelming support from exhibitors and key stakeholders, including:

• Mayor Steve Krieg and Lismore City Council
• Member for Lismore & Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Saffin
• Member for Page & Shadow Minister for Trade, Investment & Tourism, Kevin Hogan
• Lismore Show Society President, John Gibson

The Director of Norco Primex Field Days, Bruce Wright, acknowledges the incredible contribution of the Casino community, whose support helped shape Primex into the nationally recognised event it is today. That legacy will be preserved as Primex enters a new phase focused on scale, relevance, and innovation.

“Primex remains deeply grounded in its community values while preparing for future scale and relevance,” Wright added. “We’re backing Lismore because Lismore is backing the future of regional agriculture.”

With targets of 400+ exhibitors, 1,400 suppliers, and 30,000 attendees, Lismore is now the only regional city in Northern NSW to host both a nationally recognised agricultural field day and a traditional agricultural show—combining business excellence with community celebration.

Norco Primex encourages all to engage with this exciting transition and explore the opportunities it presents for collaboration, innovation, and growth.