Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said he is pleased to announce agricultural shows in Grey will receive almost $700,000 to renew and reinvigorate their showgrounds under the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program.
Five agricultural shows including Balaklava, Clare, Kadina, Kimba and Mount Remarkable will receive funding to improve infrastructure at their grounds.
Mr Ramsey said the Federal funding would provide a boost to these country shows, many of whom have struggled under the pressures of rising insurances and costs, drought and finding a volunteer workforce to put in the thousands of hours it takes to run a show.
“Having said that, I sense that in communities where shows are still operating there is a real determination to not only ensure they survive, but that they adapt, reinvigorate and grow,” he said.
“These grants will benefit both agricultural show societies and regional communities.
“Agricultural shows are the heart and soul of our regional communities. They bring and keep communities together and provide a key injection into the local economy.
“I recognise the huge effort it takes to run a successful show and the dedication of those who put in the hours behind the scenes.
“These events showcase the hard work and innovation that goes into producing Australia’s food and fibre.
“Upgrading show facilities means more visitors to these regional events, more local employment, and more purchases for local businesses.
“I’m aware that sadly, many regional towns have had to cancel events this year due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
“These grants will help our show societies refurbish their show grounds and facilities, so that when their next event rolls around they will be even more attractive to show goers.
“The Australian Government understands the important roles agricultural shows play in our local communities and we want to see them thrive, so that they can be enjoyed by Australians for generations to come.”
Mr Ramsey said the grants would help make shows bigger and better than ever.
“The annual agricultural show is always a special part of the community calendar, bringing together people to showcase all they are proud of, from cut flowers to prized sheep, shearing and equestrian events” he said.
“Thanks to this grant I hope the next show and many more into the future will flourish and continue to grow.”
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 0417827523
May 8, 2020
| Balaklava And Dalkey Agricultural Society Incorporated | $124,999.00 |
| Project: Extend the current Ralli Pavilion at Ralli Park and construct new disability-accessible toilet/shower amenities.
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| Clare Agricultural & Horticultural Society Incorporated | $123,826.00 |
| Project: Upgrade works to the Clare Showground pavilion including disabled access amenities and an outdoor deck, and installation of new public seating in the main arena.
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| Kadina Agricultural, Horticultural and Floricultural Society Incorporated | $121,672.00 |
| Project: Remove two mounds and fencing, EPA soil testing, asbestos removal, installation of paving at main entrance for safety, and upgrade of showground fencing and remediation of hardened show-jumping surface at Kadina Showgrounds.
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| Kimba Agricultural Horticultural and Floricultural Society Incorporated | $60,974.00 |
| Project: Purchase a large marquee (12m x 30m) and a shade structure (12m x 12m) for events at the Kimba Recreation Reserve. | |
| Mount Remarkable Agricultural Society Incorporated | $234,400.00 |
| Project: Construct a new exhibition hall at Melrose Showground to replace existing deteriorating pavilions.
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