Preparations under way for Heathcote Show

THE Heathcote agricultural show society committee will be applying for a grant in the 2024/25 Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program.

A successful application would enable the committee to purchase new aluminium seating.

“We would also use it to fund tree lopping to ensure safety,” said show society secretary Robyn Donovan.

Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, recently encouraged local agricultural and pastoral societies to apply for a new round of grants to help them prepare for the show season.

The Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program provide grants of up to $10,000 for infrastructure development and other business activities to celebrate Victoria’s agricultural communities, industry, and produce.

“Agriculture shows are such an important part of our regional towns,” Ms Cleeland said.

“They act as the ultimate showcase of the wonderful food and fibre we produce locally, as well as the talents of our local horse riders and livestock breeders.

“Making sure these events can attract as many people as possible will be incredibly important for the economic future of our towns and local organisations.

“We want to attract more people to visit regional Victoria, have them stay locally, and increase the amount of money spent in our local communities.

“It would be great to see as many agricultural and pastoral societies as possible benefit from this funding to ensure our regional towns continue to get the support they deserve.”

The Heathcote show committee is looking forward to this year’s show after a successful 2023 show.

“The show was cancelled three times due to COVID and floods,” said Ms Donovan. “It was great to have the show back again and we are hoping this year will be even bigger and better.

“We are encouraging amateur photographers to get their cameras clicking for the Victorian Agricultural Show photography competition.

“The theme for this year is Architecture – a bridge, building or structure in Australia. The winner of the competition will go to the group final, and if successful, on to the Melbourne Show.

“There are many photo opportunities in the local area and further afield and we look forward to seeing lots of entries.”

The Heathcote Show will be held on Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday 5 November.