COVID-19 hit show societies in the New England can now apply for a one-off payment under the Australian Government’s $39 million Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program.
The program provides operational support for agricultural shows societies and organisers of agricultural field days forced to cancel their scheduled show or field day in 2020 because of COVID-19.
Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, encouraged eligible local show societies to apply.
“This is a welcome initiative to ensure great local show events in the New England can recover and continue supporting the economy and our rich agricultural heritage,” Mr Joyce said.
“All agricultural shows and field days that have cancelled their event in 2020 because of COVID 19 will be eligible to apply and they will not have to compete for assistance.
“This builds on recent funding our government is already delivering to upgrade show society facilities in our region including new grandstand seating at Manilla Showground, new pavilion amenities for Walcha and a new bore at Quirindi Showground to name just a few local projects.
“I want to assure local communities and the dedicated volunteers who work so hard to stage these events that the Australian Government is with them all the way during these times.
“I encourage show societies and field day organisers to jump on the Government’s Community Grants Hub or GrantConnect sites now to check their eligibility and apply.”
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said local agricultural show societies have until 9 October 2020 to apply under the first funding round.
“These truly Aussie events bring our families and farmers together, build community spirit and help bridge the divide between country and city,” Minister Littleproud said.
“They contribute more than $1 billion to the national economy each year, attract more than six million patrons and are supported by more than 50,000 volunteers.
“That is why this Government is investing $39 million in support to help them deal with cash flow pressures caused by COVID-19 cancellations and ensure their future.”
For more information and to apply, visit communitygrants.gov.au/grants
(ENDS)