Video Report: Phuket farmers gearing up for National Goat Fair

PHUKET: Local farmers are gearing up for the 11th annual National Goat Fair, which will be held in Cherng Talay from May 23-25. The fair will provide an opportunity for farmers to exchange knowledge, learn from experts and showcase their products.

“The main goal of the event is to urge goat farmers to continue developing better breeding techniques to maximize production, and to always look for better ways to manage their farms,” said Deputy Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development Wimonporn Thitisak.

“Farmers will have the chance to exchange ideas, as well as gain helpful knowledge through discussions with academics and experts from the Livestock Department.”

Phuket Governor Maitri Inthusut said yesterday that he is encouraging the sale of Phuket-made agricultural products, such as goat meat and milk, to the Asean Economic Community (AEC).

“Sales of goat meat and milk could bring an enormous profit for local farmers,” said Governor Maitri.

Gov Maitri is also aiming to take some of the pressure off beach-driven tourism by focusing on the promotion of agricultural tourism. This year he has visited a number of farms throughout the island, including a pineapple farm (story here), an elephant ranch (story here), a vegetable farm and even a goat farm (story here).

The three-day event, held behind Tesco Lotus in Cherng Talay, will provide fairgoers a wide range of fun and informative activities, including goat races, goat beauty pageants and goat-product food contests.

Those of a more scientific bent may wish to attend the artificial insemination demonstrations or academic panels on how to take care of goats and other animals.

— Chutharat Plerin