31 May 2022, 9:30 PM
The NSW Government has given the North Coast National A&I team a boost as they look to repair the Lismore Showgrounds with the announcement of $45,000 in funding.
This was part of $490,000 the NSW Government is investing in the Northern Rivers community to repair and upgrade seven showgrounds damaged by recent flooding.
Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said the funding for showgrounds at Lismore, Bangalow, Bonalbo, Casino, Kyogle, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah would help the region bounce back from its worst flood event in history.
“These showgrounds are multi-purpose hubs that are used to host everything from community markets, agricultural shows and equestrian events, to relief centres during emergencies. They are extremely important for the local community,” Mr Anderson said.
“This funding will repair any damage that occurred during the recent floods and improve the showgrounds facilities. It will also support the local economy by providing work for local businesses and jobs for members of the Northern Rivers communities.”
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the funding is part of targeted support by the NSW Government to help communities bounce back.
“Restoring local showgrounds is essential to helping communities get back to a sense of normality after the unprecedented flooding we witnessed across the Northern Rivers,” Ms Cooke said.
The funding is being allocated to:
· Bangalow, Bonalbo, Casino, Kyogle, Lismore, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah showgrounds who will each receive $45,000 for flood repairs; and
· Murwillumbah Showground will receive an additional $175,000 to support an ongoing project to construct a new toilet block, and electrical and earth works.
North Coast National President John Gibson told the Lismore App, “The flood events have hit our showground very hard. The replacement costs of just the electrics are very high. This $45 thousand dollar grant was quite unexpected and we are very grateful for it. Every dollar helps.”