The Penola Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Society officially opened their new pavilion at McCorquindale Park Showgrounds on the weekend.

The society received $79,540 in Federal Government funding as part of the Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants program.

The funding enabled the society to replace the 60-year-old Warner Pavilion with a new fully powered steel pavilion.

Around 60 guests including members and life members attended the opening.

Penola Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Society president Kinta Wilson thanked Member for Barker Tony Pasin and the Federal Government for allowing the Penola Show to realise a long held dream of replacing the old Warner Pavilion that had long ceased being a serviceable building.

“Thank you to all who contributed to the completion of the new pavilion, a project that could not have proceeded without the fantastic support from both the local community but in particular the Federal Government’s grants scheme specifically designated to rural and regional shows around Australia,” Ms Wilson said.

MC Rick Paltridge read a prepared speech on behalf of Mr Pasin who was unable to attend the opening.

Mr Pasin said agricultural shows were the heart and soul of many regional communities.

“They help bring communities together, bridge the divide between country and city and provide a key injection into the local economy,” he said.

“These events showcase the hard work and innovation that goes into producing Australia’s food and fibre, and in Barker we have some of the best in the nation.

“Unfortunately, Penola had to cancel their annual show this year, so I am pleased to see the show society were still able to celebrate 2021 with the official opening of their new pavilion.”