The search is now on for this year’s Agricultural Town (Ag Town) of the Year, with rural communities across the state set to square off for the honour.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Ag Town of the Year Award, a coveted accolade that recognises South Australian towns which excel in agriculture and are also great places to live and work.
The award celebrates the strength and vitality of the state’s agricultural sector, highlighting towns that embrace their farming heritage and demonstrate foresight, resilience, and community spirit.
Now in its eighth year, the award is an initiative of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), delivered in partnership with Solstice Media – owner of South Australian publications InDaily SA and SALIFE.
The winning town will receive:
A certificate and trophy presented by the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development at the awards event
Town entrance signage recognising the town’s remarkable achievement
A community event and sign unveiling ceremony
Media exposure, including stories showcasing the achievements of individuals and businesses, as well as video highlights of regional development and agricultural contributions
A guaranteed double-page feature in the 2027 February edition of SALIFE magazine and coverage by digital news outlet InDaily SA
Networking opportunities throughout the program and at the awards night.
Last year’s Ag Town of the Year was the Southern Mallee town of Lameroo, a community that openly and proudly celebrates its agricultural identity.
It was recognised for its excellence in agriculture, regional development, and strong community collaboration.
Lameroo was selected from a record-breaking 96 nominations across South Australia.
Previous Ag Towns of the Year include Penola (2024), Wudinna (2023), Mypolonga (2022), Kimba (2021), Pinnaroo (2020) and Cleve (2019).
Nominations for the 2026 Ag Town of the Year Award can be submitted via agtown.com.au and are open until 6 May 2026. Anyone can make a nomination.
Finalists will be announced in August and the winner will be revealed at the 2026 South Australian Regional Showcase Awards later this year.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven said South Australia is home to so many agricultural communities that are worthy of being celebrated for the contributions they make to the primary industries sectors.
“Every year the Ag Town of the Year Award shines a spotlight on country communities, highlighting their agricultural output, community spirit and why they’re great places to work in or call home,” she said.
“The award offers a valuable opportunity to showcase the incredible contributions our rural and regional towns make, not only to our state’s economy, but also to our national food security. I encourage everyone to nominate their favourite town.
“At a time when our farmers and regional communities continue to face significant domestic and global challenges, this award can help bring people together and ensure their stories are seen, celebrated, and widely shared.”
