Cooma, Bombala, Nimmitabel and Delegate Showgrounds will all soon undergo major upgrades, thanks to the latest round of the state government's COVID-19 stimulus program.
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Member for Monaro John Barilaro and local MLC Bronnie Taylor announced on Friday that more than $851,000 will be shared across the four showgrounds in the Snowy Monaro.
Mr Barilaro said the funding will deliver a range of shovel-ready projects, including boosting power supplies at Cooma Showground to support bigger events and upgrading rundown and outdated facilities at Nimmitabel.
"In the Snowy Monaro we know how important our local showgrounds are. They are where we gather during times of celebration while they play a vital role in times of disaster," Mr Barilaro said.
"During the 2019/2020 bushfire season, our showgrounds became evacuation centres, a support centre for those impacted and a camp for our amazing BlazeAid volunteers. This year has highlighted how important our showgrounds are.
"This significant investment from the NSW Government will deliver better facilities and stronger infrastructure that will benefit our region for years to come. The much-needed work will also help get the local economy back on track by creating much-needed jobs in our region."
Latest funding allocations include:
$350,990 for Cooma Showground for electrical upgrades to boost power supplies to support bigger events; and to install LED floodlights on the bar to improve safety.
$269,665 for Bombala Showground for electrical infrastructure upgrades to its exhibition hall, CWA building and stables to provide increased power supply for showground events and users; and to renovate the caretaker's cottage.
$194,867 for Nimmitabel Showground to extend and upgrade its pavilion including replacement of stumps, timber sub floor, wall sheeting and roof; installation of three windows; guttering and drainage work; power and lighting upgrades; upgrade work to internal walls, ceilings, cornices and timber trims; and painting of internal walls, ceiling and kitchen.
$36,362 for Delegate Showground to upgrade its Supper Room by replacing cladding, painting and electrical works and installing two air conditioners and roller blinds.
Mrs Taylor said the funding would ensure that showgrounds across the region could be enjoyed by local communities and tourists alike for years to come.
"Local showgrounds are a huge part of country life and a truly unique reflection of the communities where they are located, so it is fantastic news that they are getting a range of upgrades and improvements across the Snowy Monaro," Mrs Taylor said.
