Show grants up for grabs

SHOW season might be over, but local school societies should still be busy.
Applications are now open for grants under the Victorian Government’s Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program.
Gembrook MP Brad Battin said the grants would help show societies upgrade showground facilities and associated amenities.
“The Victorian Coalition recognises the social and economic benefits show societies provided to rural and regional communities,” Mr Battin said.
“Locally, the Berwick Agricultural and Horticultural Show has been a major community event for more than 160 years, bringing exhibitors from across the state.
The Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program provides grants of up to $10,000 to develop showground facilities, up to $8000 to upgrade amenities and up to $5000 for associated society activities, he said.
The grants are based on a two to one funding model, with $2 provided by the Victorian Government for every $1 provided by the society.
A total of $295,000 is available this year for agricultural and pastoral societies across Victoria.
The Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grant guidelines and an application form are available at www.depi.vic.gov.au/ag-grants.
More information is also available by calling the Department of Environment and Primary Industries customer service centre on 138 186.
Applications close on 13 September.