Photo caption: Taking delivery of a new zero-turn mower for the dedicated volunteers Uralla Showground Land Managers today, Erica Barwell, left, Chair Bev Stubberfield, Darron Phillips, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Bob Crouch.
Tuesday, 21 February 2023
KEEPING the much-loved Uralla Showground looking its best just got a whole lot easier for the local volunteer land managers, thanks to the arrival today of a brand new ride-on lawn mower, funded as part of a $48,920 State Government grant, Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall announced today.
Mr Marshall said the grant, secured through the NSW Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, covered the purchase of the zero-turn mower and would also see new fire hoses, exit signs, cattle yard panels and lighting purchased and installed at the showground.
“The Uralla Showground is such an important community space and is a hive of activity every week,” Mr Marshall said.
“The local volunteer land managers do a tremendous job, but some projects, like buying a new commercial lawn mower are simply beyond their financial means.
“I’m delighted this grant has been secured to help out with even more improvement projects, on top of the ones recently completed, including new paths, disabled amenities and a new campdraft arena.
“The mower will make a huge difference to the ability of the land managers to keep the grounds looking good, but also cut down the time it takes to get the grounds mown.
“Congratulations to the land managers on a job well done.”
Uralla Showground Land Manager Bob Crouch said the committee was thrilled to receive the funding.
“We appreciate the support by the State Government through Crown Lands and particularly Adam in the development of the showground,” Mr Crouch said.
“The project will benefit well over 5,000 people including the organisers, participants, and attendees of events.
“In January we hosted the Uralla & District Pony Club Jamboree, followed by the Armidale Riding Club hack event, the Uralla District Show Society Annual Show.
“We also host the High-Country Markets, Monthly Chook Auction and Rotary barbecue. In March, we look forward to the Annual Seasons of New England.
“It is a tremendous asset to our community as we continue to develop the infrastructure. We are getting more and more people using the Showground which will help strengthen our local economy.
“Without Crown Lands funding, many of our projects would not be possible.”