Country show organisers across the Upper Hunter electorate will soon be able to make plans with certainty.
That’s all thanks to an NSW Government program, which is expected to provide financial support to ensure the much-loved community events come back bigger and better than ever.
Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell urges local organisers to apply for funding, as part of the $5 million Country Shows Support Package available for 2022.
The funds can be used for a range of reasons including ensuring shows are COVIDSafe, subsidising stall fees, equipment hire, upgrading facilities or engaging locally-based artists or musicians.
“This funding is a welcome lifeline for our shows from Gloucester to Merriwa, Singleton to Quirindi,” Mr Layzell said.
“While luck this year went the way of Stroud, Gresford and to a certain extent the Upper Hunter Show until wet weather then finally COVID restrictions trampled Muswellbrook’s attempt to reschedule the horse events.”
Funding of up to $15,000 will be available to small fairs with an audience of less than 2,000 people across all event days, while medium and large shows can apply for up to $30,000 and $45,000 respectively.
“I encourage all of our show organisers to get cracking and lodge their applications,” Mr Layzell added.
“Gloucester, Dungog, Singleton, Merriwa and Quirindi have not had their annual show since 2019 and I agree with many people that a virtual show on social media just doesn’t cut it like the sights, sounds and smells of the real thing.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Country Shows Support Package would provide sureness to organisers and give them the confidence to lock in suppliers, hire equipment and purchase goods.
“It’s been a tough few years for country shows, with drought, bushfires, storms, floods and COVID-19 disrupting plans,” he explained.
“But, as they say, the show must go on and these grants will help make that happen.
“Country shows are the heartbeat of so many rural communities.
“They not only celebrate the best of the best in the community but allow visitors to experience the tastes, sights and sounds of the bush.
“It’s also a big win for competitors who have spent years perfecting events like wood-chopping, show jumping or baking, as they can now focus on earning the points needed to compete at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.”
The $5 million Country Shows Support Package is part of the NSW Government’s $200 million Regional Recovery Package, which will deliver long term support and certainty for the regions as the state reopens.
Applications are now open and close on Friday 29 April 2022 – or when funding is exhausted.
For further information, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to www.nsw.gov.au/CountryShows
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