The Victorian Government is helping agricultural and pastoral shows bounce back from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and welcome more people through the show gates again.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today opened applications for the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants 2020-21 round, with grants now able to fund up to 90 per cent of the total project costs.
Other changes to the guidelines for this year include support for projects that encourage remote community participation and those that enhance community safety such as hygiene and sanitisation stations.
The grants provide successful applicants with up to $10,000 for infrastructure development and business activities to celebrate Victoria’s agricultural communities, practices, industry and produce.
Grants may be used to upgrade or build new facilities including judging areas, staging or display areas, or for public amenities for multi-purpose community use. The money may also be used for business activities that assist in the planning of events.
The Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants have already supported nearly forty grants worth almost $300,000 this year.
Successful applicants have invested in air-conditioning and heating in a multi-purpose pavilion, lighting upgrades, construction of horse-holding enclosures and sheep yards, portable grandstand seating and fencing for a children’s retreat and picnic area.
Applications are open now until Tuesday 1 December 2020. For more information, visit the Agriculture Victoria website.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes
“With many events cancelled throughout 2020, country communities are really looking forward to future events – I encourage all societies to think about where these grants might add value and apply.”
“Our agricultural and pastoral shows bring people together and showcase the best of the industry – that’s why we’re supporting committees to put together a show that their communities can look forward to.”
