Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud.

SEVERAL agricultural shows across Australia will upgrade sheep, wool and shearing facilities as part of $20 million in grants announced by Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud last week.

The funding includes $123,557 to the Baradine PA & H Association Inc. to construct a new livestock pavilion, administrative office upgrade, renovations to exhibition pavilion and kiosk, and installation of shade cover at the sheep judging area.

The Brunswick Agricultural Society In. was awarded $124,000 to install watering points to sheep, cattle and horse yards, purchase portable sheep yards, increase toilet facilities and provide new shaded seating.

The Gunning Pastoral, Agricultural & Industrial Society Inc. was granted $108,792 to replace and install additional seating in its shearing shed, widen the shearing board, cover the penning area and erect safe yarding system.

Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud, said the grants under the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program would also serve as a much needed cash injection in the wake of recent bushfires and the COVID-19 outbreak.

“Agricultural shows are a major drawcard for our regional towns, many of which have had to cancel events this year due to COVID-19.

“These grants will help show societies refurbish their show grounds and facilities, so that when their next event rolls around it will be even more attractive to show goers,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Ag shows are the heart and soul of our regional communities.

“They bring and keep communities together, link the country to the city and provide a key boost to these local economies,” he 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 tills ringing in local businesses.

“The grants will be used by the successful show societies for a range of infrastructure works, from small-scale upgrades to major overhauls and new builds that will benefit not only the show, but the community throughout the year and in emergency situations as was the case in the recent bushfires.

“The Australian Government wants to see our agricultural shows continue to thrive and be enjoyed for generations to come.”

It is estimated that about 580 agricultural shows across Australia contribute almost $965 million to the economy each year. Nearly 6 million Australians visit an agricultural show each year.

Click here for full details on the projects granted funding.