THE Henty Machinery Field Days and the Wagga Show are the recipients of the biggest contribution locally from a federal government financial support package to assist field days and shows recover from COVID cancellations this year.
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Henty's three-day extravaganza was among almost every field day or show event in the Farrer electorate cancelled and will receive $70,000 in support funding to cover fixed costs including rates, insurance and utilities.
Henty Field Days chief executive Belinda Anderson said the funding was welcomed. "The grant is designed to cover expenses you've already incurred prior to cancellation," she said.
"Between this grant and the other state and federal assistance that we've been able to receive it definitely softens the blow of not having the event this year."
A number of other agricultural show and field day organisers will receive a share of the more than $220,000 in funding distributed in Farrer.
The Leeton, Griffth and Albury shows will receive $15,000 and other recipients include Hay ($9649), Ardlethan ($6762) and Barellan ($3518).
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The organisers of the Riverina Field Days in Griffith will benefit from $15,000.
"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," Farrer MP Sussan Ley said.
The Wagga Show Society will also benefit from a $70,000 grant.
The president Bruce Ryan said it would go a long way to helping pay the bills such as rates and insurances.
"We didn't have a show, but we still had to pay all these outgoings," he said. "It is very much appreciated and it will help keep us afloat and keep the doors open."
Mr Ryan said the society has started discussions about a 2021 show, but concrete plans will start to take shape early next year.