In its 29th year, Agri-Trade is looking to be bigger and better than ever, officials have said.

Agri-Trade runs Nov. 7-10 at Westerner Park. Last year, more than 60,000 people walked through the doors during the event and this year, officials hope to surpass that attendance number.

“We are going to have a lot of new equipment, great speakers, products and there will be something for everyone,” said Dianne Smirl, who was recently announced as the new event manager for Agri-Trade.

Smirl will work with Patrick Kennedy, event manager of Agri-Trade, for the 2012 and 2013 show transitioning responsibilities and continuing the production of western Canada’s agricultural equipment exposition.

“I am enthused by the direction the Agri-Trade partnership is providing from the appointment of Dianne Smirl. I look forward to spending the next two shows working in conjunction with her,” said Kennedy.

With over 20 years of event and tradeshow experience, Smirl has worked throughout North America, Europe and South America producing events. Before joining Agri-Trade, she worked with many national companies as well as many industry shows throughout Canada.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know Agri-Trade and to helping it grow. This is really a dream job,” said Smirl.

Some of the highlights of this year’s event include the latest technology in farm equipment and a collector toy show, among much more. There will also be the Learning Stage which will feature many speakers from the agricultural industry.

Versatile will also be debuting a new rotary combine during the event.

“There is so much to take in at this year’s event. It’s a great place to learn about the industry and there really is something for everyone. Just because you may not be in the agricultural industry, there are some really cool things to see and learn.”

Smirl added this year they have people coming from Australia, New Zealand, and Holland. There will also be technology from Germany that will be featured.

“There will be people from all over the world at Agri-Trade.”

Agri-Trade is open to the public from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. every day. Admission is $14 per person and includes parking. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.

In addition, Smirl encourages any attendants to the show to provide feedback about the exhibition via email at dsmirl@agri-trade.com.

For more information visit www.agri-trade.com.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com