Additional $5 million boosts Mackay Showgrounds upgrade

The Federal Government is to inject a further $5 million into the upgrade of the Mackay showgrounds under the Regional Australia Development Fund (RDAF) grants scheme.

Mackay Show Society Secretary-Manager Steve Gavioli told local newspaper The Daily Mercury that the Society was "overjoyed" with the news, adding "it's a fantastic situation we're in, we can go ahead with Stage Two of the project."

The Society is undertaking a $25 million upgrade of the Showgrounds with $11.5 million of the required funding now in place. In addition to the Federal commitment, the Queensland Government has contributed $5 million while the Society has contributed $1.5 million of its own funds

Stage One of the development is currently underway, the work including the upgrade of the 500 Pavilion and the construction of five new buildings to replace existing pavilions.

State Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin, says the funding will mean work that was planned for later stages of the upgrade will be brought forward, stating "the realignment of the arena to put it more in line with the upgraded 500 Pavilion, additional pavilions in the grounds, including animal pavilions and landscaping.

"With this revamped facility they'll be able to attract more economic and social events to the showground."

The 2012 Mackay Regional Show will be held from Tuesday 19th to Thursday 21st June.

For more information go to www.mackayshow.com.au