General News
13 August, 2024
Shows fill important community spot
Show societies are geared to take their local show up a notch after a weekend event hosted by Kaniva A and P Society.
About 80 delegates from 47 show societies across the state attended the event with organisers praised for the success of the gathering. People travelled from all corners of the state including Seymour, Mildura, Dandenong and Cohuna.
During the weekend Kaniva A & P Society member Ian "Tige" Maddern received a meritorious award for his local contribution as well as to the Wimmera group and at state level. Jacob Donnellon of Donald was named Junior Rural Ambassador.
Kim Hawker was guest speaker and outlined the contribution of a show to community connectedness and their importance to small towns.
Weekend activities included an Asian-Fusion dinner, workshops on issues such as occupational health and safety, livestock, homecrafts and marketing and online sessions.
Delegates also had the opportunity to explore Lamattina’s Carrot Farm, Serviceton Railway Station and the town's historic Overland Museum.
The state's Nationals members have also thrown their weight behind local shows.
Member for Lowan and shadow agriculture minister Emma Kealy said that despite rising inflation, the Agriculture and Pastoral Society Grants Program had remained at $300,000 with $10,000 maximum for each show.
This is $20,000 less than in 2005, despite inflation causing massive increases in the staging of the annual event.
Member for Mildura Jade Benham said shows were a vital part of regional Victoria.
“Shows are the lifeblood of our small communities," she said. "They bring people together and are often a much-needed social outing for those in isolated communities.”
Applications close on August 23 for the grant, which can be used to upgrade facilities, improve public amenities, new activities or promote shows.