Annual shows in Bonner cancelled because of COVID-19 are about to get a slice of $34 million Australian Government funding to help ensure they can bounce back next year.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said the first payments under the Supporting Agricultural Show and Fields Day program would roll out before Christmas.

“I am very pleased to share with the community the Mt Gravatt Agricultural, Horticultural and Industrial Society is one of the successful recipients, with a funding grant of $32,448,” Mr Vasta said.

“We want to see the Mt Gravatt Show bounce back in 2021 and this funding package is about reimbursing cancellation costs and losses.”

Mr Vasta said the Government wanted to ensure show societies and field day organisers were in the best shape possible to continue next year.

“These events bring our families and farmers together, build community spirit and help bridge the divide between country and city,” Mr Vasta said.

“Our show days are uniquely Australian and also provide huge economic benefits to local communities, as well as the opportunities for the businesses and services who exhibit.”

Mt Gravatt Show Society Secretary Loretta Smith said she was so happy and surprised to receive this federal funding to support the Mt Gravatt Show to continue in 2021.

“So many people in the community, particularly older people who take part in the knitting and cake competitions were so disappointed we didn’t have a show this year,” Ms Smith said.

“It was such a relief for us to get this funding so we can get on with planning the 2021 Mt Gravatt Show.

“We have a lot of commitments with insurance and other things that was just draining our funds so this announcement has been a huge relief.”

Mr Vasta said he was very pleased the Mt Gravatt Show was able to access this funding to help them through this tough period.

“Next year is looking so much brighter and I know this support will be fantastic boost for our volunteers, families and school kids,” Mr Vasta said.

The 2021 Mt Gravatt show is planned for July 24-25.

More information on the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program is available here.

More Australian girls with a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics will take part in the annual Curious Minds Summer Camp.

More than 120 young women from across Australia will virtually attend a four-day intensive program and receive six months of one-on-one mentorship from 48 women in STEM professions.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said he was very pleased to share Annaliese Bohnstedt of Brisbane Bayside State College was amongst those chosen to take part in Curious Minds.

“The Curious Minds program provides an opportunity for Year 9 and 10 girls to explore their interests and build confidence in STEM subjects,” Mr Vasta said.

“I want to congratulate Annaliese and and hope she learns new skills and gains the confidence to pursue a career in STEM after school.

“Because of COVID-19, these high-potential young women will take part in a virtual four-day intensive program, including online challenges, followed by six months of coaching sessions with inspiring female mentors working in the STEM community.

“I encourage other young girls in Bonner with similar dreams to get involved and also pursue their passion for STEM.

“STEM skills are vital to future jobs and Australia’s future economy, and our Government is committed to empowering young women to excel in these areas.”

The Australian Government has provided $2.35 million to expand the camp to include Curious Minds West Coast and Curious Minds East Coast programs.

The virtual west camp will be held from 6-9 December and the east camp from 13-16 December.

More information on the program is available here.