In preparation for the upcoming agricultural show season, locals are being encouraged to apply for a new round of grants.
Available through the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program, the grants will provide successful recipients of amounts up to $10,000 for upgrading facilities and infrastructure, improving public amenities, creating new activities, and promoting local shows.
Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland emphasised the importance of recognising and celebrating agricultural shows.
“Agriculture shows are such an important part of our regional towns —acting as the ultimate showcase of the wonderful food and fibre we produce locally, as well as the talents of our local horse riders and livestock breeders,” she said.
“Making sure these events can attract as many people as possible will be incredibly important for the economic future of our towns and local organisations, and these grants will help with that.
“We want to attract more people to visit regional Victoria, have them stay locally, and increase the amount of money spent in our local communities.
“It would be great to see as many agricultural and pastoral societies as possible benefit from this funding to ensure our regional towns continue to get the support they deserve.
“I will be reaching out to our local societies to offer my support with any grant applications ahead of what will be another exciting year of ag shows.”
Previous projects funded under the program include new animal yards, fencing, shade covers and lighting or upgrades to shearing pavilions, luncheon halls, public amenities and viewing stands.
Applications close on August 23. To apply, visit www.agriculture.vic.gov.au.
