Moruya Showground users can now enjoy a new canteen and amenities building thanks to a $902,000 grant from the Commonwealth Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program.

The new facilities were officially opened by Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher and Moruya Show Society treasurer Lindsay Boyton on Sunday 13 October.

“The new canteen and amenities building look fabulous,” Mrs Phillips said.

“The Moruya Showground was an important evacuation centre for people during the 2019-2020 bushfires and a refuge for animals, which really highlighted the need for improved facilities.

“The showground has so many terrific user groups whose members can now make the most of the upgraded canteen and amenities.

“Full credit to Eurobodalla Shire Council, which also contributed $20,000 and the Eurobodalla District Show Society for taking on this renewal project and to council workers for delivering a terrific building that is certainly going to get a lot of use.”

The facilities will enhance the experience for all users including community and sporting groups, hirers of the Moruya Showground and event patrons.

This milestone event was celebrated in conjunction with the Vintage Farm Machinery Heritage Rally and Truck Show held at the venue in Albert Street, Moruya.

Mayor Hatcher said the upgraded canteen with new, accessible toilet facilities would make a real difference.

“Council work crews delivered this on time and on budget – it’s a testament to the skill and expertise we have in this organisation,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to partner with the federal government, building a facility that better supports people in an emergency but will also see heavy use by community and sports groups in the meantime.”