Australian National Field Days (ANFD) manager David Lamrock believes the old-fashioned sales event has survived because it has adapted to the times and showcases the latest in farming technology.

Nearly 600 exhibitors obviously agree.

They have been setting up their exhibits in preparation for the annual three-day event starting tomorrow.

Mr Lamrock said good rainfall in some areas of the state and a strong worldwide demand for farm equipment had buoyed confidence.

“Some of the larger companies are scaling down their exhibits a little, but in some cases that's to do with a lack of stock. That's a minor hiccough,” he said.

Attendance figures dropped last year because of the drought, however about 30,000 people are expected to walk through the gates this year.

For exhibitors, the success of the event will depend on whether they make sales.

“It's very easy to buy an ad in the paper but there's nothing like a field days to put you face-to-face with a customer. It also gives a farmer the chance to compare and see the latest technology. The Internet is great, but it's not one-on-one,” Mr Lamrock said.

Rob Hewett, from the Rural Centre, which has exhibited at every ANFD, will be selling and demonstrating equipment including mowers, saws, pumps and cattle crushes.

“We sell a lot of stock. You get people who don't normally shop with you. You see the same blokes once a year and they always come up and say hello and hopefully buy something,” he said.

The feature exhibit will showcase the work of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) in helping people in rural and regional areas with challenges including drought and isolation.

The Horse Expo, which was cancelled last year because of the equine influenza outbreak, is expected to be a popular feature with general interest as well as sales opportunities.

CWA NSW president Margaret Roberts will officially open the field days at midday tomorrow.