Country shows have always been part of the social fabric in our region, and to be able to keep these shows going this year will be a huge benefit to the local community, both as a moral boost as well as an economic boost.
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Drought and bushfires have prompted the cancellation of more than a dozen country shows in recent months which is why the NSW Government is committing sponsorship grants of up to $5,000 for shows to assist organisers of shows in 2020.
In drought regions local businesses are struggling to find the money they'd usually provide for sponsorships, and we've seen how bush fires have also resulted in cancelled shows where showgrounds became evacuation centres.
Country shows draw huge crowds which gives local businesses exposure and a chance to showcase products, creating work for suppliers, keeping money flowing through towns.
Shows bring together all the best things about a community, they give people a reason to come together and have fun, whether that's cheering at a wood chopping event, competing for the best raspberry jam or visiting the livestock sheds.
Given the drought has affected most of regional NSW in 2019 and bushfires have touched many areas of the state, every show society in regional NSW will be able to apply for funding for their country show.
Applications will be accepted from show societies in regional areas. To apply for sponsorship for your show society, go to https://rgf.smartygrants.com.au/CountryShowsSponsorship.
LLS rate relief continues for NSW farmers
The NSW Government will once again waive Local Land Services (LLS) rates for this year to provide relief for farmers going through devastating bushfires and crippling drought.
During these difficult times, every little bit of support counts and that waiving LLS rates would help reduce the burden on hard-working farmers.
My top priority is to make sure farmers are getting the support they need during this difficult period, and waiving LLS rates is just one thing we can do to help.
Ratepayers will receive their notice informing them that all LLS rates will be waived over the coming weeks. While primary producers have welcomed rain recently, this drought is by no means broken.
We are committed to providing our primary producers with the best support possible to see them through the worst drought in living memory.
To find out more about available assistance measures and eligibility criteria, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/droughthub or phone the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.
Senior transport now available
We are committed to improving connectivity in the bush, which is why we announced the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card.
We are delivering on this commitment to help our seniors travel to and from essential services and make it easier and more affordable for them to remain connected with friends and family.
I'm excited that the card is now being made available and ready to be applied for.
Eligible aged pensioners and Commonwealth Senior Health Card Holders can apply for the card by visiting a Service NSW centre in either Bathurst, Lithgow or Oberon, online at service.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 77 88.
After a successful application through Service NSW, eligible seniors will receive their card and can use it to purchase fuel, use taxi services or to book a NSW TrainLink fare on a coach or a bus.
