Eight Fleurieu and KI towns are among 59 across South Australia in the running to take the crown as the state’s best agricultural town for 2021, with public voting now open.

Local towns in the running are Currency Creek, Delamere, Langhorne Creek, Myponga, Parndarna, Port Willunga, Strathalbyn and Willunga.

Kangaroo Island’s Parndarna made the top five in last year’s vote.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham says it is pleasing to see nearly 60 different South Australian towns nominated for this year’s award.

“During tough times, the resilience of our regional communities shine and 2021 has thrown up many challenges, particularly with the impacts of COVID-19,” he says.

“Agriculture has continued to keep moving through the COVID-19 restrictions to ensure food from South Australia appears on tables across the country and world.

“I’m proud this award throws the spotlight on our regions and demonstrates the best of agricultural towns in South Australia.

“The Award recognises the importance of agriculture in South Australia and the positive economic impact the entire supply chain has on a township and community.

“In its third year, it is pleasing to see nearly 60 different towns nominated for the Ag Town of the Year Award with previous winners being Cleve and Pinnaroo.

"Our regions matter – they contribute around $29 billion per year to the South Australian economy across a range of industries including farming, fishing, mining, manufacturing and tourism.

"This is why our government is investing record amounts in regional South Australia to build key infrastructure, drive economic growth and create jobs.

“And it is why I’m encouraging everyone to visit the website, take a look at what these wonderful communities have to offer and cast a vote for the Ag Town of the Year today.”

The nominees will now be put to a public vote to help select five finalists who will vie for the title of 2021 South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year.

The winner will be announced at the 2021 Regional Showcase celebration event in November 2021.

To vote for your favourite agricultural town, visit the website. Voting closes 2 September.