$150,000 BOOST TO SUPPORT THE RETURN OF AG SHOWS IN 2021

Gresford Show Champion - Brooke Talbot (Riding Jazzabelle) and Sue-Anne martin.

Shows cancelled because of COVID-19 are about to get a slice of $34 million Australian Government funding to help ensure they can bounce back next year.

Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said the first payments under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program will roll out before Christmas.

“Two months ago, the Government launched this package to reimburse eligible costs for shows and field days who had to cancel because of COVID-19,” Dr Gillespie said.

“Today I am pleased to announce that 8 across the Lyne electorate have been approved for funding to help ease cash-flow pressures,”

·         Stroud Show Association        $17,615

·         Camden Haven Pastoral Agricultural Horticultural & Industrial Society        $15,000

·         Manning River Agricultural and Horticultural Society Taree              $15,000

·         Wingham Show Society         $11,400

·         Gloucester Agricultural Horticultural and Pastoral Association         $15,000

·         Dungog Agricultural & Horticultural Association        $10,000

·         Wauchope Show Society       $58,390

·         Bulahdelah Show Society       $5,065

• The Sydney Royal Easter Show $15,108,989

“It is crucial that our show societies and field day organisers are in the best shape possible to bounce back in 2021. These events bring our families and farmers together, build community spirit and help bridge the divide between country and city.”

“They also help to keep maintain our farmers’ competitive edge by providing an outlet for new ideas, new technologies and new ways of working to be shared.

“Next year is looking so much brighter and I know this support will be fantastic boost for our volunteers, families and school kids.”

Chair of Agricultural Shows Australia Dr Rob Wilson said show societies forced to cancel in 2020 were positive about hosting again next year.

“With some states already giving the go-ahead to shows next year, subject to COVID conditions being met, this funding will ensure hundreds of societies can start planning now.”

“This Australian Government support has helped provide certainty and a renewed sense of optimism ahead of 2021 after a difficult year for everyone, especially our 50,000 volunteers,” Dr Wilson said.

Fast Facts

·          Agricultural shows and field days contribute more than $1 billion to the economy each year but rely largely on financial assistance from supporters and attendees.

·          There are 580 agricultural shows nationwide, which attract six million visitors and are serviced by 50,000 volunteers.

·          The Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program funding is being provided under the $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund for regions, communities and industry sectors disproportionately affected by COVID-19.

·          Successful applicants are eligible to claim reimbursements on costs including bank fees, utilities, rates, insurance, fire alarms and equipment, cleaning supplies, telecommunications, IT system licensing costs, website costs, state/national show body affiliation fees and rent.

·          The program is part of a broader $60 million agricultural support package that includes the $20 million Regional Agricultural Shows Development program.

·          The Country Women’s Association Tea Room expect to sell more than 50,000 scones at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.