Trelawny Association of Branches Society (TABS), organisers of the 65-year-old Hague Agricultural and Industrial Show have a significant exhibition planned for this year’s staging.

Come February 26, the agricultural showcase, held each year in the parish of Trelawny, will showcase more than the traditionally highlighted farmers and produce.

“We are rebuilding the brand of the Hague Agricultural and Industrial Show,” Tova Hamilton, member of the Hague Planning Committee said. “We are going all out for the upcoming show, with the intention to involve more businesses whose products and services thrive within the agricultural space.

“The Committee is expanding the offerings beyond agriculture only, to incorporate other industries that operate within our space and share linkages with agriculture,” she explained.

Processed foods and emerging offshoots of agriculture will receive attention.

“We are inviting companies to partner with us to showcase what they have to offer our farmers... entities such as the JMEA (Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association), RADA (Rural Agricultural and Development Authority), Jamaica 4-H Clubs and other organisations, we want to talk to you. Businesses that include the sale of heavy-duty equipment, farming tools and products, and household and office supplies that are created from agricultural products are also welcome,” Hamilton elaborated.

Hamilton also highlighted the belief that the youth should be at the forefront in the promotion of agriculture. The show has invited educational institutions in both agricultural and science vocations.

More than fluff

Another feature of the exposition will be rabbits.

“We also want to focus on some foods that are not a part of our everyday cuisine, but would do well to excite our palates, such as rabbits. We are enthusiastic about the preparation of rabbits and consequently, we have requested that a local farmer breed some rabbits specifically for Hague,” she noted.

Trelawny is known for being yam country and the succulent tubers have always been a feature of this event. Expect yam punch, yam cakes, and puddings as well as great wines, sauces, jams and more on show.

Several ongoing improvements to the Hague Agricultural and Industrial Showgrounds since the last staging are having a profound impact.

The upgraded facilities include new bathrooms, increased lighting facilities and main building repairs. The support from entities like HiPro, Tourism Enhancement Fund, Fersan, H&L Agro and others have facilitated these upgrades. Further improvements for next year’s staging will include an upgraded water system and increased security.

“Ultimately, the venue and the show will provide for a remarkable family-oriented event,” added Hamilton. “We are expecting an impressive show for 2020 and implore all persons to come on out and support our farmers this year.”

The early inclusion of other entities, including the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Public Health Department, Social Development Commission and the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission will lead to more comprehensive and effective planning. In effect, the February 26, 2020 staging is expected to appeal to farmers, agri-processors, manufacturers and patrons alike.