The Northern Agricultural Association has big plans for Singleton Showground after receiving two federal grants that will go towards providing support for lost cash flow from cancelled events due to COVID-19 and the construction of new facilities.

The Association, which dates back to 1868, had two successful applications, receiving $70,000 from the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days Program, and $199,994 from the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program.

“While I was happy to help, the success comes down to the quality of the grant application, and I congratulate the Association for putting together what was obviously two very good submissions,” said Member for Hunter, Joel Fitzgibbon.

The larger of the two grants will go towards upgrading the cattle pavilion, demolishing the ageing dairy cattle sheds, and constructing a new sheltered area.

“The ageing sheds have definitely served their purpose over the years, but new facilities will allow the Showground to accommodate bigger crowds and provide bigger and better entertainment for future Singleton Shows.”

“I was pleased to walk around with Northern Agricultural Association President, David Williams, and Secretary, Roslyn Shearer, to see their plans for the showground and how the Association will utilise the upgrades,” said Joel Fitzgibbon.