Groundswell organisers are defending yesterdays low turn-out and condemning criticism from the Agriculture Minister.

Hundreds of protesters across 60 convoys jumped in their utes, trucks and tractors in opposition of the Government's proposed farm-level emissions pricing scheme.

Organisers had been predicting thousands 24 hours earlier.

Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor described the size of the crowds across the country as 'embarrassing.'

Groundswell Organiser Bryce McKenzie told Kate Hawkesby O'Connor's comments are very disappointing.

He says while he'd hoped for higher numbers, it's a very busy time on the farming calendar.

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