More agricultural shows and community events will be coming to the South Australian town of Freeling following the opening of a new showground and events centre in the Light region town.
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin officially opened the Freeling Agriculture, Recreation and Multi-Use (FARM) Centre, which will provide a new space for agricultural trade shows and community and sporting events.
“With a trades hall capable of doubling as an indoor sports centre and a range of expandable training and meeting rooms, this centre is flexible and adaptable to the community’s needs,” Mr Pasin said.
“With a kitchen, canteen, café, showers, store rooms and office space, as well as car parking for over 100 visitors, this is a fully furnished and modern facility that will benefit a wide range of community and social groups.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s investment of $2.19 million would bring both economic and social benefits to the centre of Australia’s animal fodder industry.
“In addition to supporting 95 jobs during construction and creating three ongoing roles, the centre will provide a space to showcase the region’s produce with export-oriented trade shows and events,” Mr McCormack said.
“These will increase the opportunities for the region’s agricultural industry to grow their export markets, increase production and create more jobs in the region.”
Mayor of Light Regional Council Bill O’Brien said the new centre would provide training and education for the fodder industry, supporting cooperation between local businesses.
“It will also bring more community events by being able to host rural shows and events and providing a venue for basketball, netball, cricket and AFL,” Cr O’Brien said.
“By supporting our agricultural industry while providing a versatile new space for community groups, this is a fantastic piece of infrastructure for Freeling and for the entire Light Region.”
The Australian Government invested $2,191,500 in the project under the Building Better Regions Fund – an $841 million investment designed to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future.
Light Regional Council contributed the remaining $2,678,500 to the $4.87 million project.
Media Contact:
Mr McCormack – Tess Salmon 0467 740 017 | Hannah Maguire 0429 920 254
Mr Pasin – Charlotte Edmunds 0402 343 753
Cr O’Brien – Simon Sherriff 0459 869 869
