TAMBORINE Mountain’s beloved agricultural show not only unites the community, but preserves the traditions started of the area.
However, all their efforts come at a cost.
The Queensland Government recognised the challenges show societies face and has given additional funding in this year’s budget to help Queensland’s agricultural shows thrive.
Tamborine Mountain Show Society is one of the 129 Queensland show societies to receive funding from the $500,000 boost in the Show Society Grants Program.
The funding will be split evenly between the show societies and will assist them in managing operational and infrastructure costs.
Another $100,000 has been earmarked for an economic impact study to guide future funding and sustainability strategies.
Tamborine Mountain Show Society President Vanessa Bull is grateful for the extra funding.
She says the show society has faced many challenges over the years and this funding will certainly be of assistance.
“We’ve gone through a tornado and a cyclone where we’ve had to cancel one of our shows,” Vanessa said.
“We also had a major challenge in 2024 where the President died the day before the show, and instead of grieving, everyone was extremely helpful.”
“There’s been two years of challenges but we’re hoping for good luck next time.”
Vanessa says that the show society’s main purpose is to preserve the showgrounds purchased by the community in 1928.
“The grounds have always been used for festivals, functions and different activities, and we’re looking forward to its 100 years,” she said.
“It’s important to preserve those grounds for the future so you have that stability in the community.”
President of the Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies (QCAS), David Wilson, welcomed the funding as a game-changer for rural and regional communities.
He said that the importance of agricultural shows in Queensland communities cannot be overstated.
“They provide a space for community engagement, foster local economies, and support the agricultural sector,” Mr Wilson said.
“This funding will go a long way to helping shows maintain their viability and continue to provide these valuable services.”
