Agricultural shows and field days given Federal Government ‘much-needed’ lifeline

Agricultural shows and field days could be given a lifeline after the Federal Government announced grant opportunities of up to $70,000 to offer “much-needed” support. Agricultural Shows and Field Days program — now in its second round of funding — offers regional show societies “much-needed” support after the impact the pandemic has had on the community events. Grants from $10,000 to $70,000 were available for eligible show societies and field days organisations as of January 28, with the program closing in late February. Federal member for Forrest Nola Marino said agricultural show and field days provide a vital economic boost for small business and charities in the South West region. “These events bring communities together and this funding gives organisers the confidence they need to go ahead and plan their events for 2022 and beyond,” she said. A slew of events across the South West have been cancelled due to COVID-19 including agricultural shows such as the the Harvey Show as well as the lower South West’s Warren District Agricultural Show. Ms Marino said the programs is a way to give show societies much-needed support after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19. “They (agricultural shows and field days) are essential to showcase the latest technology and innovation in the industry, which contributes to increased productivity and profitability for all involved in the agriculture sector,” she said. Grant applicants will be able to claim eligible expenditure incurred for events cancelled in the period from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2021.