Strathalbyn is the only Fleurieu town to make the top ten of the 2025 South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year, voted by the public.

The top 10 list – from 96 nominated towns – recognises South Australian communities that showcase farming innovation, community resilience, sustainability and contributions to both the local and state-wide agricultural sectors.

The top ten nominated towns are:

• Bordertown
• Cummins
• Jamestown
• Keith
• Kimba
• Lameroo
• Mount Pleasant
• Orroroo
• Port MacDonnell
• Strathalbyn

The top 10 towns will provide a written submission to an independent judging panel, which will assess their contribution to agriculture, community strength, and regional leadership.

From this group, three finalists will be selected for town visits before the ultimate winner is crowned later in the year. The towns are judged on criteria including:

• Agricultural innovation — adoption of new technologies, climate-smart farming, productivity gains.
• Economic impact — strengthening local economies, job creation, added value 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 and leadership programs.

The Ag Town of the Year prize includes a sign for the town entrance recognising its achievements, a community celebration event, a trophy, and extensive media exposure showcasing the town’s contribution to the state.

Nine Fleurieu towns and two on Kangaroo Island were among the 96 nominated for the 2025 award. The public vote closed on 20 June.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven says she is privileged to be able to travel across the state to see regional towns and communities that contribute so much to the state.

“Despite the current drought impacting many regional towns, it is inspiring to see these communities stepping up and embracing innovation in primary industries, while fostering meaningful connections within their communities.

“This year’s top 10 nominees reflect the breadth of agricultural excellence across South Australia - from pioneering farmers to forward-thinking local councils and agricultural champions.

“This award isn’t just about production - it’s about people. We’re celebrating the communities that are truly living the values of partnership, resilience and innovation and showing why South Australia is a global leader in primary industries.

To view the list of towns and for more information on the awards, visit the website.