Image: Cummins
Three South Australian communities have reached the final stage of the 2026 Agricultural Town of the Year Award, with Burra, Cummins and Waikerie now competing for the statewide title.
Representing the Mid North, Eyre Peninsula and Riverland respectively, the three finalists were selected from a publicly voted Top 10 following an assessment by independent judges Kris Lloyd AM, Professor Simon Maddocks and Joyce Ceravolo.
Now in its eighth year, the Ag Town of the Year Award recognises regional communities that celebrate their agricultural heritage while demonstrating innovation, leadership and strong community spirit.
Each of this year’s finalists has previously progressed through the annual program.
Burra reached the final round in 2024, while Cummins secured a place in the Top 10 in both 2024 and 2025. Waikerie has returned to the competition’s later stages after reaching the Top 10 in 2023 and the Top Five in 2022.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven congratulated each community on reaching the final three.
“It’s wonderful to see Burra, Cummins and Waikerie have each made it to the final three in this year’s Ag Town of the Year program, and I congratulate each on making it this far,” Minister Scriven said.
“The Ag Town of the Year Award is all about celebrating the country towns that demonstrate strength, innovation and leadership. These three towns are outstanding examples of rural communities that are vibrant, hard-working and fantastic places to live.”
The judging panel will now visit each of the finalist towns to meet community members and see firsthand how local industries, organisations and residents contribute to their region’s agricultural sector.
The winner will be announced at the 2026 South Australian Regional Showcase Awards later this year.
Along with receiving the official title, the winning town will be presented with a certificate and trophy, entrance signage recognising the achievement and a community celebration and sign-unveiling ceremony.
The winner will also receive a double-page feature in SALIFE magazine, coverage through InDaily SA and networking opportunities through the awards program.
Previous Ag Town of the Year winners include Cleve in 2019, Pinnaroo in 2020, Kimba in 2021, Mypolonga in 2022, Wudinna in 2023, Penola in 2024 and Lameroo in 2025.
For further information and updates, visit AgTown.com.au.
