Two Pine Rivers region show societies have received more than $40,00 in funding from the Palaszczuk Government’s Show Societies Grants Program.
Part of a $2 million statewide budget commitment, the funding will help keep crowds rolling up to the local show, bring communities together and boost regional economies.
Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd said she welcomed the funding that will go toward one of the most important events on the region’s calendar.
“For many, the show is the one time of the year to catch up and connect with the rest of the community, so I’m thrilled the government has allocated $31,827 to the Pine Rivers Agricultural, Horticultural & Industrial Association and $9,728 to the Dayboro Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Association,” Ms Boyd said.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s commitment will go a long way to help the shows continue to put smiles on the faces of Queenslanders both young and old.”
Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Mark Furner said local shows play a vital role in communities across the state.
“The shows don’t just provide an opportunity for people to gather, connect, compete and compare, they’re also integral to local economies, generating a return of around $84 million into Queensland communities,” Mr Furner said.
Across the state, grant allocations range from $5,000 for small show societies up to $150,000 for the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland to conduct the Ekka.
As well as using the grant for running costs and maintenance, show societies that own their own grounds will now be able to use up to half of their funding to build new infrastructure essential to the running of the show.
The Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies has also been allocated funding to help support and mentor show societies through workshops on administration, risk management, event planning, legislation and corporate governance.
General Manager of the Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies, Karen Wolf welcomed the government funding.
“The annual show grant enables Show Societies to provide safe, enjoyable events each year,” Mrs Wolf said.
For more information visit: http://www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/shows
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