SHOWGROUNDS across the Parkes Shire and surrounding regions are receiving another funding boost, after Upper House MP Sam Farraway announced more than $482,000 for upgrades under the NSW Government's COVID-19 stimulus program.
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Mr Farraway said upgrades will be funded to the Parkes, Trundle, Eugowra, Tullamore, Manildra, and Forbes showgrounds to improve facilities and infrastructure.
"Our local showgrounds are multi-use community hubs so it's terrific to see this further investment in infrastructure upgrades to keep them safe and functional for future generations," Mr Farraway said.
"Showgrounds provide facilities for agricultural shows and a wide range of community groups and many also serve as relief centres during bushfires and floods to provide shelter for residents and animals and a base for emergency services."
The latest round of Showground funding includes:
- $206,250 for Parkes to demolish five pavilions and remove asbestos.
- $140,096 for Trundle to redevelop its hospitality facilities
- $76,705 for Eugowra to concrete areas surrounding the pavilion, upgrade external lighting, and for improvements to its horse arena
- $22,000 for Tullamore to install solar panels on its sheep and cattle pavilion
- $21,366 for Manildra to replace public seating around its show ring
- $15,620 for Forbes to install four reverse cycle air-conditioners.
Minister for Water, Housing and Property Melinda Pavey said the COVID-19 stimulus program has now allocated a total of $55.77 million to 795 showground improvement projects across the state.
"We previously provided $35.77 million across the State to support 623 upgrade projects at 187 showgrounds which have so far supported over 1,490 jobs, providing work for tradespeople, suppliers and fabricators," Mrs Pavey said.
The funding for the upgrades at the Parkes Showground has been a long time coming, with the Parkes Showground Trust pushing for demolition of a number of pavilions at the Parkes Showground from at least January 2017.
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