From Kimba to Strathalbyn, these resilient farming communities show why SA leads in agriculture
While much of South Australia is doing it tough right now, with drought hitting hard across the regions, our Ag Town of the Year contenders are a reminder of what our regional towns are made of – grit, heart and a whole lot of community spirit.
The top 10 towns in the running for the 2025 South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year have just been revealed, representing every corner of the state. From seaside towns to the dusty paddocks of cropping and grazing country, each one brings its own flavour of farming brilliance and regional resilience.
The 10 nominated towns are:
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Bordertown
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Cummins
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Jamestown
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Keith
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Kimba
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Lameroo
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Mount Pleasant
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Orroroo
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Port MacDonnell
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Strathalbyn
Chosen from a pool of 96 nominations, these towns showcase agricultural innovation, strong community values, and a deep commitment to keeping the heart of SA’s primary industries beating.
Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, says these towns are living proof of the resilience and drive that runs through the heart of regional SA.
“In a year where so many regions are feeling the pressure of drought, it’s uplifting to see communities not only hanging on – but stepping up with new ideas, fresh energy and that classic country determination,” she said.
“This award isn’t just about what we grow – it’s about how we grow it, who we do it with, and how we lift each other along the way.”
Next, each town will submit a written pitch to an independent judging panel, showing how they’re leading the way in areas like:
- Agricultural innovation – adoption of new technologies, climate-smart farming, productivity gains
- Economic impact – strengthening local economies, job creation, value-adding industries
- Community engagement – participation in local ag events, volunteerism, youth development
- Sustainability – environmental stewardship, water and land management, biosecurity initiatives
- Agricultural education and leadership – school and community education, leadership programs
Three finalists will be selected for town visits later in the year before the winner is crowned.
The winning town will take home a shiny new town sign, a community celebration, a trophy and statewide media coverage, plus the bragging rights of being named SA’s top ag town for 2025.
Find out more and see the full list at www.AgTown.com.au
