The Cloncurry and District Show Society has been awarded $14,045, Mount Isa Agricultural Show Society $20,312 and the   Hughenden Show Society $9,271.

Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies manager Karen Wolf said the funding was crucial in order to be able to deliver the shows each year.

“Many of the show societies, particularly the smaller ones, would find it extremely challenging to conduct their shows without the government’s assistance through the grants program,” Ms Wolf said.

“We are absolutely delighted the government has increased the funding as it will have an enormous positive impact on every show in Queensland.”

Local Government minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the grants will help with operating costs as well as construction and maintenance of showground assets.

“When I was growing up, going to the show was one of the highlights of the year and even now, when I hear the screams from the rides and catch the familiar scents of dagwood dogs, fairy floss and livestock in the air, it’s still a thrill,” Mr Hinchliffe said. 

“The local show is more than just a magical occasion creating wonderful memories, it’s a truly important social and economic event on the calendar for towns, cities and regions right across the state.

“The show societies and associations that run the shows do a fantastic job, usually with limited resources, which is why the government made a commitment during the election to increase our support for these organisations,” he said.