This recognition celebrates Bute's outstanding contributions to agriculture and regional development, showcasing its resilience, innovation, and community spirit.
Situated approximately 160km from Adelaide, Bute is a small but vibrant farming community with a population of around 400 residents. Despite the challenges posed over the years by periods of low rainfall, Bute has continued to thrive through various agricultural and community initiatives.
One of the standout projects that has revitalised the town is the Bute “Beaut” Silo Art project which was completed in 2022. This project, a collaboration between Barunga West Council and the Bute Onwards 2000 Progress Committee, transformed the town’s silos into a stunning piece of art that has become a major award-winning national tourist attraction. The artwork features local icons, flora, and fauna, symbolising the town’s rich agricultural heritage and community pride.
The silo art has significantly boosted local tourism. Council's six-site caravan park has also seen a rise in bookings, further stimulating the local economy.
Barunga West Council has invested over $2.3 million in Bute over the past three years, enhancing critical infrastructure and community facilities. These investments include upgrades to the Bute Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, improvements to sports courts, the development of a new bike track, and a significant upgrade to the Community Wastewater System.
“We are thrilled and honoured that Bute has been nominated as South Australia's Agricultural Town of the Year 2024,” said Leonie Kerley, Mayor of Barunga West Council.
“This nomination is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our residents, who continuously strive to make Bute a thriving, inclusive, and enjoyable place to live. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all community groups and residents for their active participation and support.”
Bute is among the top 10 towns vying for the title of South Australia's Agricultural Town of the Year 2024, which also includes Kapunda, Eudunda, Cummins, Gladstone, Kimba, Burra, Laura, Penola, and Jamestown. This year a record 73 towns were in the running for a Top 10 spot, with more than 3,600 public votes cast.
The next phase of the competition involves Council and local community groups collaborating to submit a detailed written submission highlighting Bute’s achievements in promoting and supporting agriculture.
The winner will be selected by an independent judging panel, which will review the submissions and select three finalists.
These finalists will proceed to the town visits stage, where the judging panel will evaluate each town's contributions first hand.
The 2024 winner will be announced at the Regional Showcase Awards celebration event on 24 October 2024. The Agricultural Town of the Year Award is an initiative of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.