Pictured: Mr Joyce at Manilla Showgrounds with local councillor Jim Maxwell and Manilla Show Society’s LouEllen Overton on announcement of the funding.

Manilla Show Society will receive $122,755 to renew and reinvigorate local facilities, under the Australian Government’s Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the grant will enable the purchase and installation of new grandstand seating to replace existing condemned seating at Manilla Showground.

“I fought to have this funding delivered here at Manilla and now we have it,” Mr Joyce said.

“Manilla’s annual show is already a big drawcard on the local show circuit, but these new grandstands will help lift the standard of facilities and make attendance just that little bit more comfortable for patrons and visitors.

“I look forward to once again joining the local community at the Manilla Show in the future.”

Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud, said the grants would 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, bridge the divide between country and city and provide a key injection into the local economy,” Minister Littleproud said.

“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.

“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 wants to see our agricultural shows continue to thrive, so that they can be enjoyed by Australians for generations to come.”

(ENDS)