The Albanese Labor Government’s decision to cut funding to important programs supporting regional, rural and remote Australia has cost community groups.
Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton said the Labor government was obsessed with the big cities and regional Australia had paid the price.
“The Albanese government has completely abandoned regional and rural communities.
“They axed the Building Better Regions Fund, Community Development Program and refuse to fund Stronger Communities – all critical funding streams for regions such as ours.
“Only a Coalition Government will get regional Australia Back on Track and fund the enabling and important community infrastructure our regions deserve,” Mr Hamilton said.
In announcing funding support for the Toowoomba Showgrounds Lighting Project, Member for Groom Garth Hamilton said he was committed to ensuring a future Coalition government would provide $59,000 to the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland (RASQ) to install solar street lighting around the Toowoomba Showgrounds.
Mr Hamilton said the new lighting would enable more events, improved safety and benefit the many visitors at the Showgrounds each year.
“Our Toowoomba Showgrounds is a much-loved community asset, it provides a base for local community organisations and of course Queensland’s oldest agricultural show,” Mr Hamilton said.
“Improving infrastructure, facilities and services across Groom is an important part of my local plan,” Mr Hamilton said.
RASQ President Shane Charles welcomed the funding for the new solar lighting.
“The new lighting will improve the safety and accessibility of the grounds for the thousands of people who visit the venue each year,” Mr Charles said.
“The grounds are a multi-purpose facility that hosts various events ranging from the annual Toowoomba Show to numerous community gatherings and a temporary home to over 10,000 caravan and campers each year.
“The Toowoomba Showgrounds brings communities together, strengthens social connections, encourages community participation, and enhances vibrant and viable future communities.
“The lighting improvements will enhance the visitors’ experience to this iconic venue.”
ENDS.
Media Contact: Greta Dwan 0414 211 908
