Agricultural shows and field days in the Limestone Coast have received almost $200,000 in Federal Government funding to compensate for 2020 COVID cancellations.

The funding is being provided under the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days and Supporting Showmen and Women programs.

Mil Lel Show will receive $5846.64, South East Field Days Lucindale $70,000, Millicent Show $15,000, Penola Show $7868.06, Naracoorte Show $15,000, Mount Gambier Show $70,000, Kingston Show $8917.85 and Bordertown Show $5810.05.

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said COVID-19 had forced the cancellation of more than 700 show and field day events since early 2020.

“They have incurred significant financial losses for two consecutive years and the flow-on effects to local communities like those in Barker will be felt for years,” he said.

“This funding included $403,452.19 to support 18 cancelled shows and field days in Barker.”

“We are continuing to back these iconic events with another $25m to help ease cash flow pressures for event organisers and those vital showmen and women.

“Industry needs confidence and certainty to push through these times and be ready on the other side to contribute to the agriculture’s $100b by 2030 target.

“Agricultural shows and field days are supported by more than 50,000 volunteers and about 4000 showmen and women.

“They make a significant social and economic contribution to my electorate and hundreds of Australian communities.”