NSW GOVT COMMITS TO CESSNOCK SHOWGROUND ENTRY UPGRADE

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Catherine Cusack has announced Cessnock Showground will benefit from $60,000 in funding as part of the NSW Government COVID-19 stimulus package.

Cessnock Showground has been approved for upgrade work to improve the safety, use and condition of its infrastructure and support jobs in the local economy.

“When COVID-19 hit it forced the postponement or cancellation of agricultural shows and many activities that showgrounds rely on for their income,” Ms Cusack said.

“This investment by the NSW Government will provide a boost for Cessnock Showground and the local community by improving its infrastructure and supporting local jobs. “$60,000 in work will upgrade and repair the showground’s main internal access road to benefit showground users including campers and horse trainers.” Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said this funding is part of $25 million that will be spent over two years to improve showgrounds across the State.

“$12.5 million is being allocated immediately to get projects underway this financial year under the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Stimulus Package,” Mrs Pavey said.

“We will then follow through by allocating another $12.5 million for more work across showgrounds to be announced next financial year.”

Cessnock Showground is one of 137 across the State that will benefit from the first tranche of funding. “Showgrounds today are multi-use facilities for a range of activities from agricultural shows, rodeos and horse clubs to farmers markets, festivals, camping, men’s sheds, and sport and cultural events,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Our showgrounds are at the heart of communities including serving as evacuation centres during bushfire and flood so we want to keep them in good shape.”