Upgrades to Wingham Showgrounds are rolling forward, with construction beginning on the new multipurpose event arena and the extension to the wool and sheep shed.
NSW Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said these works were being funded thanks to an $836,734 grant from the Stronger Country Communities Fund.
“The new multipurpose arena, replacing the old dilapidated cattle pavilions, will give future events more flexibility,” Mr Bromhead said.
“The showground is a facility at the heart of the Wingham community home to 17 local organisations and host to numerous events and festivals throughout the year including the Wingham show, Rodeo, Beef Week and the Akoostic Festival.
“Keeping these vital facilities maintained and up to date is another example of NSW Nationals in the state government delivering for the regions.”
A number of smaller projects have already been completed thanks to the funding.
Completed upgrade work at Wingham Showground includes:
- $17,186 to install garden hedging to provide a camping privacy screen
- $17,000 to install air conditioning in the tea rooms
- $16,900 to install vinyl floor coverings in the tea rooms
- $14,800 to provide an improved access way from the kiosk to the showring gate
- $3500 to repair blocked drains
“The continuing upgrades are benefitting the community by supporting local jobs while improving showground infrastructure and facilities for current and future generations to use and enjoy,” Mr Bromhead said.
Secretary of the Crown Land Management Board, Denis McKinnon said this work had been a long time coming.
“The old cattle pavilion was more than 80 years old and had become unsafe due to termite damage and rotting timber, upgrading it wasn’t a choice but a necessity,” Mr Mckinnon said.
“The new and improved facilities will be a great asset for the entire Wingham community.”
All of the upgrades at Wingham showgrounds are expected to be completed by February 2021 in time for the Wingham Show.
