Celebrating a successful show over the weekend and a funding win, Uralla District Show Society Vice President Carl McMillan, left, President Wes Styles, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Uralla Shire Mayor Mick Pearce, Secretary Sue Barnden and Vice President Bill Upjohn.
Monday, 10 February 2020
NORTHERN Tablelands MP and Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has today announced the region’s 11 shows will share in $50,027 worth of funding as the State Government steps in to ensure the important community events go ahead despite the drought and bushfires.
Mr Marshall said with many show committees battling to secure sponsorship from struggling local businesses, the government had decided to throw its hat in the ring to help.
“Country shows have always been part of the social fabric of our region, and to be able to keep these events going this year will be a huge benefit to the local community by both boosting moral and stimulating the economy,” Mr Marshall said.
“Each of our local show societies are eligible for up to $5,000 which will greatly aid with the operating costs associated with running the show, acquiring family friendly entertainment and just ensuring everything runs as it would on a normal year.
“I want to congratulate and thank all the show societies, volunteers and exhibitors for working together to make sure the show goes on in 2020,” Mr Marshall said.
Mr Marshall said the funding will be a welcome relief for Glen Innes, Guyra, Ashford, Inverell, which all take place this month.
The 145th Uralla Show was held over the weekend and the show society received its $5,000 last week.
“Shows bring together all the best things about a community, they give people a reason to come together and have fun, whether its cheering at a wood chopping event, competing for the best jam or visiting the livestock sheds,” he said
“I can’t stress enough how important it is for the wider community to get along and not only back their shows by spending money on the gate, but show their support for the many rural exhibitors who are still turning up and showing their pride and joy.
“Despite the best efforts of its hard working committee, Bundarra’s is the only show which has been cancelled in our region this year due to a lack of water for livestock at the showground. I will work with the show committee over the next 12 months to ensure it’s back bigger and better in 2021.”