Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock joined with members of the Nowra Show Society today to announce $919,105 in NSW Government funding for the upgrade of the Nowra Showground.
Mrs Hancock said the funding provided as part of the NSW Government’s Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism fund will allow Shoalhaven City Council to undertake an extensive suite of works at the showground.
“The project will be underway over the next two years and once complete will support a number of growing niche agricultural events that will support tourism on the South Coast, attract visitors and create local jobs,” Mrs Hancock said.
Enhancements to Nowra Showground facilities made possible by the additional funding include:
- fencing around the Cattle Judging Yard;
- upgraded and increased seating including accessible seating and pathways;
- drainage and guttering to improve environmental outcomes;
- cattle ramp improvements;
- construction of a Judging Room/Office;
- a kitchen upgrade to cater for events; and
- amenities blocks – one upgraded block and one new block including disability access and showers.
The recent funding announcement comes on top of $188,613 announced in September 2018 to fully fund the installation of new lighting on the added area of the Nowra Showground and upgrade power boards across the facility.
“Never before have we seen investment like this into our iconic and historic Nowra Showground,” Mrs Hancock said.
“It is an asset to the local community and the region and we must ensure that it remains in the best condition, competitive against other major event venues and able to be enjoyed by all.
“I congratulate the Nowra Show Society, in particular former president Wendy Woodward and incumbent president Tom Cochrane for their dedication, commitment and perseverance. I thank them for working closely with me to ensure we could help achieve this fantastic outcome for the community,” Mrs Hancock said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the project is one of 14 new projects to receive a share of the $50 million available for infrastructure projects that draw tourists from outside the region or encourage them to stay longer and spend more.
“These are the signature projects that help to boost tourism visitation, with countless flow-on benefits such as creating jobs for locals, from dive instructors to chefs and vine-growers to event managers,” Mr Barilaro said.
“I congratulate Shoalhaven City Council, the Nowra Show Society and Shelley on this funding win and look forward to seeing how this signature project cements the South Coast’s status as a holiday and tourism haven and a fantastic place to live, work and play.”