Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, has announced another grant for the Armidale Showground with Showground Trust Chair June Dangar.
Monday, 23 November 2020
YET another grandstand at Armidale Showground is set to be upgraded, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing a $93,500 State Government grant to replace the old timber seating at the venue’s campdraft arena.
This takes the total amount provided to the Armidale Showground through the NSW Showground Stimulus Fund (SSF) to $271,994 this year.
Mr Marshall said it was important the grandstand was rebuilt, as it’s utilised by a number of different equine groups.
“Campdrafting is growing in popularity and is one of those family sports which rain, hail or shine always draws a crowd,” Mr Marshall said.
“Like many old timber structures across the region the termites have moved into the campdraft grandstand at the Armidale Showground, weakening it structurally and making it unsafe for spectators.
“This grant will demolish that grandstand and install steel seating in its place, this change limiting the amount of ongoing maintenance needed in future.
“The venue’s Land Managers are hopeful the project will be complete prior to the 2021 Australia Day weekend campdraft, meaning a full, COVID Safe crowd can pack into the grandstand to enjoy the event.”
Mr Marshall congratulated the Armidale Showground Trust for the huge amount of work which has been completed on site over the past 12 months.
“Through a combination of State Government grants and their own capital the Trust has worked hard and have improved the Armidale Showground out of sight,” he said.
“Both the east and west heritage grandstands have been restored, and not only do they look magnificent but they are back open and able to be used by the public.
“Termite affected railings at the Livestock Centre have been replaced and all toilets around the grounds now have duel flush cisterns which will dramatically reduce water usage.
“With the majority of buildings on site now up to Work, Health and Safety standards I expect we will see the showground re-instate itself as the city’s central location for large scale public events.”