Central North Coast National Agricultural Society has received $58,159 in the latest AgShows grants to install portable aluminium seating at Kempsey Showground.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the Central North Coast National Agricultural Society was one of 122 rural show societies nationally that would share in $20 million and deliver renovation projects that would provide a welcome boost to local economies.

“The Kempsey Show is a major drawcard for the town and it was sadly one event cancelled this year due to COVID-19,” he said.

“This grant will enable Central North Coast National Agricultural Society to install sturdy, portable seating which provide an added level of comfort for show goers and will no doubt help to attract even more visitors next year.

“I thank the show society for making an application to the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program as their success will also provide a bit of work for our tradesmen and set the showground up for the future.”

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said Ag shows were an event that helps to keep regional communities together.

“Ag shows are the heart and soul of our regional communities. They bring and keep communities together, link the country to the city and provide a key boost to these local economies.

“The $20 million grants will be used by the successful show societies nationally for a range of infrastructure works, from small-scale upgrades to major overhauls and new builds that will benefit not only the show, but the community throughout the year and in emergency situations as was the case in the recent bushfires.”

Nationally, agricultural shows:

• Contribute around $965 million to the economy each year
• Attract nearly six million Australian visitors each year.

To view a full list of successful applicants visit www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/infrastructure/ag-shows

Media contact:
Mr Littleproud – Douglas Ferguson 0455 448 985
Mr Conaghan – Liz Spry 0418 928 744