MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall confirmed this week an administrator has been appointed to manage the Armidale Showground Reserve in lieu of a reserve trust committee.
Mr Marshall said the appointment of an experienced Armidale-based officer from Crown Lands NSW took place following the resignation of four trust members, leaving two members remaining.
The MP said he welcomed the decision by Crown Lands to step in and assume control for the time being.
“The Armidale Showground Reserve Trust was left with too few members to properly undertake its role, so the decision was taken to appoint an administrator for a limited time,” Mr Marshall said.
“While this is an unfortunate situation, it doesn’t mean that the showground’s operations or future plans are in jeopardy.
“The administrator has stepped in quickly to pick up the ball and has already met with the planning consultant engaged by the trust to develop a management plan for the showgrounds.
“I also understand that former trust members have been part of a consultation process and will continue to play an important consulting role during the administration period.
“The remaining members of the trust were keen to continue on with their roles, but in the end I believe the correct decision was made.
“I am confident that the showground is in good hands and steps are in place for all the vacant reserve trust positions to be advertised later this year.”