Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry has announced four show societies in Capricornia will benefit from over $160,000 in funding from the Federal Government’s Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program.
The first payments under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program rolled out before Christmas, with 378 shows and field days—including Yeppoon Show, Sarina Show, Pioneer Valley Show and Clermont Show — being approved for funding to help ease cash-flow pressures.
Ms Landry said shows and field days were uniquely Australian and provide huge economic spin-offs for local communities as well as opportunities for the businesses and services who exhibit.
“The Government is keen to ensure show societies and field day organisers are in the best shape possible to continue 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.
“I am very pleased Yeppoon and District Show Society, Sarina Show Society, Pioneer Valley Agricultural Show Society and Clermont Rodeo and Show Society can access this funding to help get them through this tough period,” Ms Landry said.
“2021 is looking so much brighter and I know this support will be fantastic boost for our volunteers, families and school kids.”
The funding breakdown follows:
- Yeppoon Show Society (Yeppoon Show) – $70,000
- Sarina Show Society (Sarina Show) – $15,000
- Pioneer Valley Agricultural Show Society (Pioneer Valley Show) – $70,000
- Clermont Rodeo and Show Society (Clermont Show) – $13,984.55
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.
