Sheepvention business and events manager Emmelie Nijskens with committee chairman Will Kinghorn.

HAMILTON’S Sheepvention Rural Expo is planning to return later this year with a team of volunteers led by a new business and events manager.

The Hamilton Pastoral and Agricultural Society has announced it will return on 31 July-2 August 2022 under the guidance of its new business and events manager Emmelie Nijskens.

Ms Nijskens has held roles within hotels and festivals all over the country and with the new position is moving from South Australia into south-west Victoria to be one step closer to her home town of Terang.

She grew up on the family dairy farm near Terang and said she is thrilled to be moving back to the country where she can combine her passion for events management and agriculture into one.

“I have always said if I can combine my love for events management with my background and passion for agriculture it would be the perfect job, so this is a really great opportunity for me and I look forward to being a part of the team,” Ms Nijskens said.

After an enforced hiatus of two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the main focus for Ms Nijskens will be overseeing the rural expo alongside Sheepvention president Kathryn Robertson and newly appointed committee chairman, Will Kinghorn.

The event will return to the Hamilton Showgrounds with its usual segments, including the Hamilton and District Sheep Show, ram sale, wool handling, Coprice Victorian Farm Dog Championships, Innovations Hub, Producers Pavilion and trade exhibitions.

Ms Nijskens said the committee is also looking for more volunteers to assist with meeting the demands of the event.

“More volunteers are required to assist in ensuring we run a successful, smooth event.

Support is required across all areas of the Sheepvention in the weeks prior and throughout the delivery of the event,” she said.

“We hope that anyone interested will reach out.”

Registrations are currently open for trade site applications. For further information on becoming a Hamilton P & A Society member, or for Sheepvention updates please visit www.hamiltonshowgrounds.com.au