Chairman: Goroka show major promoter of agri-tourism

THE Goroka show has been a major promoter of agri-tourism over the last 62 years, according to show chairman Keryn Hargreaves.
“Tourists interact with farmers involved in agricultural products, they touch, see, smell and taste agriculture products mainly food and coffee produced by our local farmers,” Hargreaves said.
She said at every show the largest displays were given to the agriculture sectors where farmers displayed their garden and livestock products.
Hargreaves said tourists coming to the show were not only coming to see the traditional cultures, traditional singsings and performances.
“The tourists coming to the show have varying interests, some have interest in agriculture, they always get close interactions with local farmers thus promoting agri-tourism,” she said.
“The annual show this year, we will have farmers under the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Fresh Produce Development Agency and other entities showcasing their products in a separate building.”
Hargreaves said a separate Coffee Haus erected for coffee farmers, processors, exporters and stakeholders in the industry to promote coffee as Eastern Highlands was a major coffee producer in PNG.
“We want to use the show as a relevant platform for farmers participation aimed at achieving the Government’s vision in the medium term development plan,” she said.
“More than 50 farmers have already registered to participate in the show.”
According to Hargreaves, interested farmers are coming from as far as Menyamia in Morobe, Chimbu and Madang.
“Another impact at the show would be the floriculture haus where floral displays, sales and promotion of floriculture would be showcased for the first time.”