Shows and swap meets in the New England, among those cancelled because of COVID-19, are about to get a slice of $34 million in Australian Government funding to help ensure events proceed next year.
Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the first payments under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program will roll out before Christmas.
In the New England, funded events include:
• Quirindi Rural Heritage Village Incorporated (Quirindi Rural Heritage Village Swap Meet) $5,378.07
• Quirindi Show Society Inc (Quirindi Show) $13,196.59
• Tamworth Pastoral and Agricultural Association Inc (Tamworth Show) $25,473.00
• Merriwa Pastoral Agricultural Horticultural and Industrial Association Inc (Merriwa Show) $3,605.79
• Woodenbong Show Society Incorporated (Woodenbong Show) $1,667.68
Mr Joyce said the funding would help boost club coffers as committees and show societies look to return to the show circuit next year.
“Volunteers, families, school kids and community groups involved in shows all help to lower operating costs and make these events as good as they can be,” Mr Joyce said.
“Shows not only provide a social outlet for our communities, they also help to maintain our competitive edge by exhibiting new ideas, new technologies and new ways of working.
“I am pleased local events will be able to offset some losses from this year and hope they will be in sound position to host again in 2021.”
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said 378 events - including Quirindi, Tamworth, Merriwa and Woodenbong - had been approved for funding to help ease cash-flow pressures.
“The Government is keen to ensure show societies and field day organisers are in the best shape possible to continue in 2021. These events bring our families and farmers together, build community spirit and help bridge the divide between country and city,” Minister Littleproud said.
(ENDS)