General News
15 January, 2025
Hughenden Showgrounds hit by storm after funds announced
There will be a major upgrade to the community facility after the council secured a federal grant.
Just days after being named as a recipient of almost $1.8 million in federal funding, the Hughenden Showgrounds were smashed by a freak storm on Sunday.
“We experienced strong winds up to 120km/h, which caused some damage at the showgrounds,”
Flinders Shire mayor Kate Peddle told North West Weekly.
“The areas affected include the gymnasium shed, an old football shed, and some portable grandstands. We have also heard many reports of hail and fallen trees around the shire.”
While the clean-up continues around Hughenden, Cr Peddle said she was thrilled that the federal government had delivered $1.796 million under the Growing Regions Program for the showgrounds.
“This grant will enable us to construct a new workshop area, secretary’s office, kiosk, and storage facilities – a much-needed upgrade for our community,” she said.
“This funding, facilitated supports our efforts to maintain and improve the facilities that are vital to our community.”
Cr Peddle said the council was also planning to build a new bar/canteen, and speakers box at the showgrounds with additional funding from the Works for Queensland program and the council.