Lawrence’s annual celebration of families who have been farming their own land for more than 100 years held its first and, until now, largest gathering in 2006, but recently has enjoyed an upsurge in popularity.
Chairwoman Karen Roughan said the event committee was delighted to receive more than 70 applications this year, despite also being a little daunted.
As those attending may each bring several family members, she said the capacity of venue Simpson Park, and local accommodation, would have been tested had all 70 converged on Lawrence at once.
This had led to a decision to spread attendees over two weekends for the first time, from May 8-10 and May 15-17.
‘‘Two award weekends in a row will be a real test for our local volunteers, who already contribute so much, but we already have extra people putting their hands up to help.
‘‘It’s a great boost for our local economy during a quietening-off period heading into winter.’’
In part, the recent jump in numbers was a result of the significant land distribution granted to soldiers returning from World War 1, under the Discharged Soldiers Settlement Act.
Nearly half of this year’s applications were for properties bought in 1918-19, Mrs Roughan said.
As the growth was likely to continue, a ‘‘first-in, first-served’’ policy could be applied in future.
‘‘We’ll use discretion on whether we carry applications over until the following year.
‘‘I guess the message is, get your application in early to ensure you’re at the top of the queue.’’
The deadline for next year’s event is November 30, 2020.
This year’s event will include eight sesquicentennial awards, recognising families who have been farming their own land for 150 years or more.
