There were no showbag purchases, dagwood dogs or rides but Scott Morrison insists he's a big fan of rural shows.
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The prime minister opened the 100th Burnie show in northwest Tasmania on Friday, announcing that applications were open for a $20 million grant scheme designed to prop up such events.
"Some rural communities are doing it tough. Agricultural shows are a great opportunity for communities to come together," he said.
Show societies and agricultural bodies can apply for up to $500,000 to upgrade or build new showground infrastructure under the national program, which was an election promise.
Mr Morrison has been a frequent visitor to north and northwest Tasmania, where the Liberals took the seats of Braddon and Bass from Labor at the May federal poll.
He was warmly greeted by locals in Burnie apart from one who yelled out 'when are you going to support the farmers?''.
But there were no mid-show stops for food or rides.
"First time I've done a press conference to country music, might make it a normal practice," Mr Morrison said.
The prime minister will spend a night in Tasmania and address the annual state Liberal conference in Devonport on Saturday.
Australian Associated Press
