mmg.com.au

The final stage of the Shepparton Showgrounds Master Plan will be completed with the help of $500000 in Victorian Government funding, Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell announced recently.

Representing Deputy Premier Peter Ryan at the event, Mrs Powell said the $1.1million Shepparton Showgrounds Outdoor Multi Use Event and Recreation Area project would transform the showgrounds into a regional events hub.

‘‘This project will create a landscaped gateway to the CBD entrance from Shepparton East, a spacious outdoor grassed area, asphalt promenades and a complementary soft-surfaced arena linking the existing indoor arena and hard stand areas,’’ Mrs Powell said.

‘‘The outcome will be a year-round venue capable of staging major events like expos, car shows, arts and community festivals, whatever the weather.’’

Mrs Powell said the project would ensure Shepparton remained a major events destination and would build on the quality and range of arts and cultural activities hosted in the region.

‘‘The Shepparton Showgrounds are an important component of the region’s economic and social activity, hosting more than 30 events over the past year,’’ she said.

‘‘The annual Shepparton Agricultural Show, for example, attracts more than 12000 visitors and helps bring the wider community together, while generating significant economic activity.’’