News

Community facilities | November 12, 2020

Funding on offer for agricultural shows

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy is encouraging local show societies to apply for grants of up to $10,000 under the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants 2020-21 program.

Ms Kealy said the grants, which are now able to fund up to 90 per cent of the total project costs, could be used to upgrade or build new facilities including judging areas, staging or display areas or for public amenities for multi-purpose community use.

The 2020-21 Guidelines have been expanded to include support for projects that encourage remote community participation and those that enhance community safety such as hygiene and sanitisation stations.

Examples of previous successful grant applications include air-conditioning and heating of multi-purpose pavilions, lighting upgrades, construction of horse and sheep years, portable grandstand seating and fencing for a children’s retreat and picnic area.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our hard-working agricultural societies across the Lowan electorate to convert their fabulous ideas into reality by applying for funding under this program,” Ms Kealy said.

“Rural show days provide a boost to local economies and an opportunity for people to come together, while at the same time showcasing the areas agriculture to both locals and visitors alike.

“We all know how important our agricultural shows are to our rural communities and this program offers a great opportunity to increase the vibrancy and prosperity of our local shows and country towns.

“I encourage all our local agricultural societies to consider applying.”

Applications are being accepted now and close on Tuesday, 1 December 2020.

To apply visit https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/support-and-resources/funds-grants-programs.