'Bigger and better' is what is on the agenda for 2021's Griffith Show thanks to some 'helpful' cash from the federal government.
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The Griffith Show Society has been handed a $15 000 agricultural show 'recovery' grant from Farrer MP Susan Ley to help soften the blow of disappointing COVID cancellations in 2020.
"It's estimated agricultural shows and field days contribute more than $1 billion to Australia's economy each year, but they rely largely on financial assistance from sponsors and attendees," Ms Ley stated in a press release.
"The Agricultural Shows and Field Days program allows my local show groups to recoup some of their yearly costs such as rates, rent or insurance through to affiliation fees, or even just keeping the power on."
Griffith Show Society president Brett Brown said costs associated with rent of the showground among other things still had to be paid this year which makes the government help welcome.
"Everything helps of course," Mr Brown said.
Next year the Griffith Show was supposed to be celebrating its 100th year but despite 2020's show being cancelled the society are determined to celebrate the centenary next year regardless.
"We will be putting on a big show," Mr Brown said.
"Bigger and better than we've had in a long while.
"We are trying to get new attractions with all the old favourites. We are trying to get some of the history back."
Mr Brown expressed concerns that this year's cancellations may deter exhibitors from returning, considering the associated costs with travelling the 'show circuit'.
"We are worried that the people who weren't able to come this year, won't come next year, but we hope they will," Mr Brown said.
"It's getting dearer and dearer to do anything with shows."
The funding in excess of $220k for Farrer was replicated Australia-wide and part of $34 million in support for committees and organising bodies to deal with cash flow pressures and forced cancellations.
"Many business exhibitors and community groups rely on 'their show' to generate sales or raise funds, so I truly hope this money ensures everyone can be back on deck in 2021," Ms Ley said.
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