Baradine Showgrounds will be reinvigorated with a $123,557 contribution through the Federal Government’s Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program.

The Baradine Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural (PA&H) Association is one of 122 regional agricultural show societies to receive a portion of $20 million in grants.

Regional agricultural show societies across Australia have received the funding assistance to help build or upgrade ageing infrastructure.

The grant, prepared with the assistance of the Baradine and District Progress Association, will also help sustain show societies who have been forced to cancel events due to current restrictions.

Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud, said the grants would serve as a much-needed cash injection in the wake of bushfires and the COVID-19 outbreak.

“Agricultural shows are a major drawcard for our regional towns, many of which have had to cancel events this year due to COVID-19,” Minister Littleproud said.

“These grants will help show societies refurbish their show grounds and facilities, so that when their next event rolls around it will be even more attractive to show goers.

“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.

“These events showcase the hard work and innovation that goes into producing Australia’s food and fibre.”

The Baradine PA&H Association will use the grant to construct a new livestock pavilion and carry out upgrades to the main exhibition pavilion, kiosk and the sheep pavilion.

Association president, Lauren Harris said the grant success is great news for the local community.

“These upgrades are crucial for the future of the Baradine Showground facility and we are delighted with the news.

“The showground is the place where the community comes together, but you can’t keep a show

going without support and well-maintained infrastructure. It is a fact that most showgrounds face the challenge of ageing infrastructure and costly maintenance.

“This grant success has renewed our determination to forge ahead with plans for next year’s show.”