Monday, 6 March, 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is giving agricultural societies across Gippsland a shot in the arm with $57,457 in funding through the Agricultural and Pastoral Grants Program, so that field days and shows have the support and facilities they need.

Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria announced the funding today, which will support projects that improve agricultural facilities, provide benefits to the industry, and encourage local community involvement.

Agricultural and pastoral shows play a vital role in Victorian communities and the Labor Government understands that with the right support, agricultural shows and regional Victoria will continue to thrive.

This year, the Victorian Government co-contribution grants were increased to a 1:3 ratio. For every $1 that a society contributes, the Government is providing up to $3.

Agricultural groups across Gippsland receiving funding include:

• Bairnsdale & District Agricultural Society Inc
• Korumburra & District Agricultural & Pastoral Society Inc
• Lardner Park Events
• Maffra & District Agricultural, Pastoral and Horticultural society Inc.
• Omeo and District Agricultural & Pastoral Society Inc
• Sale and District Agricultural Society Incorporated
• Lang Lang Pastoral Agricultural & Horticultural Association

Funds will used for a range of purposes including to upgrade facilities, improve safety on sites, construct a carpark, provide storage, renew timber benches and purchase a portable building.

This level of investment from Government has allowed some of Victoria’s smaller societies to apply where they haven’t before, knowing that their own contribution will only need to cover 25 per cent of the proposed activity.

All projects are designed to provide a direct benefit to rural and regional communities and enhance the promotion of livestock and agricultural activities.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
 
“Ag Shows and Field Days part of the fabric of regional Victoria. They promote agricultural production and give farmers a chance to share knowledge amongst themselves and with the broader community.”

“Field days are a great day out with the family, bringing local communities together.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“Agricultural shows and field days are one of the highlights in our rural Gippsland communities –  they attract primary producers, agribusiness and provide entertainment for all.”

“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in our local shows and field days because weknow they are important.”