The NSW Nationals in the state government have allocated a further $20 million for showground upgrades across the state to improve community infrastructure, support jobs and stimulate local economies in response to the pandemic.
NSW Nationals Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said this further funding injection brings the total to $55 million worth of investment in showgrounds as part of the COVID-19 stimulus program.
“This investment will improve the safety and quality of showground infrastructure while stimulating local economies by providing work for a host of local tradies and materials suppliers,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Showgrounds are incredibly valuable community infrastructure, whether it’s for events and shows or use as emergency centres during crisis events. This investment in Crown land ensures showgrounds can continue to serve communities throughout the state for many years to come, building a stronger and safer regional NSW.”
To date, improvement work has included the rebuilding of grandstands and pavilions, upgrades of kitchen and amenities blocks, lighting and electrical systems, water and sewerage networks and roads and fencing.
Strong recovery
This further funding will boost jobs and contribute to local communities adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The NSW Nationals in the state government previously provided $35 million across the state to support 623 upgrade projects at 187 showgrounds, which has so far supported over 1490 jobs, providing work for tradespeople, suppliers and fabricators.
Now with the allocation of this further $20 million, we will see another 172 upgrade projects at 73 showgrounds to support more improvements and jobs.
Showgrounds are multi-use facilities at the heart of our communities and this continued funding comes at a critical time when COVID-19 has been disrupting annual shows and other activities that showgrounds rely on for their income.
