Applications are now open for Victorian Agricultural and Pastoral Societies to access funding to support free entry for children to shows and field days and boost their COVID recovery.
The funding has been made available through the Victorian Government's one-off investment in the Children Entry COVID Recovery Grants program.
Agriculture Victoria Executive Director, Policy and Programs, Sarah-Jane McCormack, said the program ensures regional and rural shows come back stronger than ever.
"For the past two years, most of the state's agricultural shows have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 and these grants help organisers return to pre-pandemic attendance and revenue."
"Free entry for kids makes it easier for families to come along and see firsthand best on-farm practices and to immerse themselves in learning experiences to better understand agriculture," said Ms McCormack.
The grants are open to all eligible Victorian Agricultural and Pastoral Societies that are hosting up and coming agriculture, horticultural or pastoral events including the Royal Geelong Show, the Whittlesea Show, the Mildura Show and many more.
Grant amounts will be capped and based on previous ticket revenue from recent shows, events or field days held by the Agricultural and Pastoral Society.
Regional and rural shows are a fixture of Victorian society, building community spirit by celebrating agriculture in a fun, entertaining, educational and inclusive environment.
Executive Officer of Victorian Agriculture Shows, Rod Bowles said he is delighted to see the program open for applications.
"The past two years have been challenging for the Societies and we're looking forward to welcoming more families to the upcoming spring show season," Mr Bowles said.
Applications now open until 26 September 2022.
