Power to the Show

The grant is part of the state government’s 2013/14 Public Reserves Management Fund Supplementary Showgrounds Round, which Forbes PA and H Association applied for to update a major switchboard in the showground’s electrical system.

PA and H Association president Pip Perry said the funding was great news.

“The current switchboard is past its use-by date,” he said.

“It’s quite exciting to think we might get through the show without some big catastrophe … it could have been a huge headache if the power went out during the show and there were no replacement parts for this switchboard.

“We use an awful lot of power at peak times during the show and that switchboard controls all that power.

“This will give us some reassurance and is one less thing to worry about.”

Mr Perry would like to thank the state government for granting them funding, which will all go towards the electricity supply upgrades.

Forbes Shire mayor Ron Penny said this is another great win for Forbes.

“It’s wonderful to know the government is working to ensure our communities’ vital infrastructure and congratulations to the PA and H Association on the great job they do in managing and operating the Forbes Showground,” he said.

Member for Dubbo Troy Grant said he was pleased the region was able to share in this supplementary round of the Public Reserves Management Fund, which was dedicated to the development, maintenance and improvement of showgrounds.

“Showgrounds are wonderful assets valued by the local community and their ongoing success is vital to local sports and activities, business and tourism in regional towns,” he said.

Deputy premier and minister for regional infrastructure and services, Andrew Stoner said the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government was committed to rebuilding regional infrastructure.

“The Public Reserves Management Fund allocated $23.6 million to Crown reserves across the state, which included $2 million for iconic regional showground improvements,” he said