Norco Primex 2026 Launches New Era
Extended hours, industry hubs and infrastructure upgrades reshape regional showcase
Norco Primex 2026 is set to mark a major turning point for one of regional Australia’s most significant agricultural events, with extended opening hours, new Industry Hubs, strengthened partnerships and major infrastructure improvements planned for the Lismore Showgrounds.
Held from 21–23 May 2026, the event will return under the theme “Growing the Future”, signalling a broader vision that goes beyond traditional field days to connect agriculture, business, education and community across the Northern Rivers and Northern NSW.
Organisers say Norco Primex 2026 will deliver one of the most comprehensive regional showcases yet assembled, featuring machinery, livestock, agtech innovation, professional services, health initiatives, education pathways and regional lifestyle opportunities in a single integrated event environment.
A major feature of the 2026 program is the introduction of extended Friday evening hours, designed to make the event more accessible for working families, regional visitors and local businesses. The additional evening programming will create a stronger community atmosphere while expanding opportunities for exhibitors to engage with a wider audience.
Central to the expanded format will be a coordinated network of Industry Hubs, bringing together stakeholders across five priority sectors:
- AgTech & Innovation, highlighting emerging technologies transforming farm productivity and sustainability
- Business & Industry, supporting regional enterprise growth and investment opportunities
- Health & Wellbeing, connecting communities with essential services and support networks
- Education & Careers, promoting training pathways and workforce development
- Regional Living, showcasing lifestyle, housing and community services across Northern NSW
These hubs are expected to strengthen collaboration between farmers, industry leaders, government agencies, educators and community organisations while helping address workforce challenges and future regional development priorities.
Primex organisers will also formally announce the event’s 2026 partners as part of a renewed commitment to collaboration across industry and community sectors. Importantly, the program will include expanded community engagement initiatives that reinforce Primex’s long-standing role as a driver of regional participation and opportunity.
Significant upgrades to the Lismore Showgrounds precinct will further enhance the visitor experience. Supported by a $4.7 million investment, improvements include upgraded access points, enhanced infrastructure and expanded parking capacity to support growing attendance and exhibitor demand.
Primex Director Bruce Wright said the 2026 event reflects a deliberate shift toward building stronger connections across regional Australia’s key industries and communities.
“Norco Primex 2026 is about bringing our industries and communities together in a way that reflects where we are heading, not just where we’ve been,” Mr Wright said.
“The expanded programs, new initiatives and stronger community focus are creating opportunities for everyone to be part of this next new and exciting chapter.”
Momentum continues to build ahead of the event, with strong exhibitor interest already confirmed and further program announcements expected in the coming months. With its expanded scope and upgraded venue, Norco Primex 2026 is shaping as one of the most influential regional events on the Northern Rivers calendar.
From the Northern Rivers Times News Desk
