New Showground and Cattle Yards in Euabalong
Work is complete on a brand-new permanent showground arena and cattle yards at Euabalong in western NSW, supported with funding from the NSW Government in association with Cobar Shire Council.
Crown Lands provided$148,631 in Crown Reserve Improvement Fund (CRIF) grants for the materials to construct the new arena, which will allow locals to safely hold horse and cattle sports competitions, such as team penning barrel races, steer and bull rides, horsemanship clinics, and major gymkhana events.
Previously, volunteers would spend up to a week dissembling the old arena, which was made of portable materials. This was time-consuming and onerous for volunteers, reducing the incentive and capacity for the community to hold a large number of horse and cattle events.
The new arena will allow Euabalong to hold more events each year, which will help cultivate a vibrant community spirit. Local horse associations will also benefit by using the facility for training, ensuring the next generation of stock handlers can hone their skills in a safe environment close to home.
The permanent arena includes safety improvements, such as fixed fencing that will reduce the risk associated with working with livestock. It will also significantly increase the number of spectators able to attend events from 400 to more than 600.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Showgrounds are multi-use facilities at the heart of local communities, and I know the new showground and cattle yard will be warmly embraced by the local residents of Euabalong.
“Not only will it create more jobs, but this shared communal space will play a central role in creating a thriving and resilient local community for generations to come.”
Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
“The annual Euabalong ‘Red Dirt Roundup’ Gymkhanais a must-see, true-blue bush event that attracts hundreds of people each year.
“The construction of the new permanent arena will allow the community to hold events like this and many more to boost tourism, increase economic growth and showcase the beautiful town of Euabalong that’s nestled on the picturesque Lachlan River.”
Euabalong and Eubalong West Progress Association President David Gleeson said:
“Cattle handling and horsemanship are a part of daily life here, so having a permanent showground will do our community a world of good. We’ve done it tough recently with droughts and floods. This new arena will not only boost community spirit, but allow important skills to be handed down from one generation to the next.
“Remote communities like ours rely on events to help us come together. We can’t wait to hold many more events in 2024 and beyond.”