With Kiama Showground already benefiting from $165,000 worth of sports field lighting from the first round of the NSW Government's COVID-19 Stimulus Package, another $522,500 was given to Kiama Council today to make further substantial improvements to the complex.

The much needed repairs and improvements, which will be undertaken over the next year, are:

• removal and replacement of asbestos roofing
• remediation of the playing surfaces on both ovals
• providing removable goals posts for both ovals
• refurbishing the horse and cattle stables and cattle yards
• installing irrigation on both ovals, which will cut down on maintenance and water costs
• refurbishing the amenities at the horse stables and rugby club
• installing new mobile grand stand seating at the Showground.

Acting General Manager Mike Dowd said the money was being shared relatively equally amongst the projects, and that Council will work with the Show Society to scope and plan the work in a way that fits in with putting on the next Kiama Show.

“The Kiama Showgrounds are arguably the most beautiful and recognised showgrounds in regional Australia, and a crucial part of our community’s heritage and public life,” Mr Ward said.

“I’m thrilled to have once again worked with Kiama Council to help secure funding to ensure the Showgrounds continue to be a focus for community events and activities for a long time to come.

"This is going to make such an appreciable improvement to the grounds for a long time to come."

Mayor Mark Honey said, “The Showgrounds already boast a world-class function centre in The Pavilion, which we were able to rebuild in 2009 with the help of the NSW Government.

“Now we will be able to our much-loved football fields and agricultural buildings up to the same standard.”