The weather held off just long enough for people to enjoy the 28th Balingup Small Farm Field Day on the weekend.
Organisers were pleased with the estimated turnout of more than 7000 to the event despite the bad weather forecast.
“We had a little light rain in the early morning while exhibitors were setting up, but then it cleared and we all enjoyed the cloudy but pleasant conditions,” Field Day Committee Chair Janine Milton said.
The rain came with a vengeance, along with an electrical storm and, about an hour before the event was due to finish, organisers quickly moved into emergency mode.
“All patrons were advised to leave the site and go to their cars or take shelter in permanent structures. We shut off the power to the site to maintain electrical safety, and used a generator-powered PA system to communicate,” Ms Milton said.
“Despite the conditions, exhibitors were patient and positive throughout, with everyone helping each other.
“Volunteers were manually pushing cars that were bogged and two tractors were used to help cars leave the oval.
“We are grateful to so many people for their hard work, team spirit and patience. We get that every year, but this time they were challenged beyond the norm – and they excelled.”
The Field Day Committee will liaise with the Donnybrook-Balingup Shire and the Balingup Soccer Club regarding repairs to any damage to the oval.
The annual event is run by volunteers and profits from the event help finance worthy community projects.
