DAN REPACHOLI MP

MEMBER FOR HUNTER

THE HON TARA MORIARTY MLC

MINISTER FOR REGIONAL NSW

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Saturday, 10 February 2024

REFURBISHED TEAROOMS SERVED UP AT SINGLETON SHOWGROUND

Singleton Showground is now better equipped to host major events and support the community in times of natural disaster with the official opening of the Northern Agricultural Association Tearooms.

The $487,000 upgrade was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.

The tearooms have undergone one of the most significant renovations since they were built in 1909, including the refurbishment of the kiosk, preparation room, Presidents Room and installation of new amenities.

A new commercial kitchen with modern cooktops, dishwasher, refrigerated cabinets, pie warmer and upgraded air-conditioning has brought the facility up to modern food handling standards.

The 2023 Singleton Show recorded 6,000 people through the gates and the redevelopment is expected to enhance Singleton Showground’s ability to cater for future large-scale events including agricultural shows, community activities, fundraisers and cultural celebrations.

Singleton Showground is home to the Northern Agricultural Association, a volunteer organisation whose history dates to 1868.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said during the 2019/20 bushfires, impacted Hunter landholders relied on the Singleton Showground for its showers and amenities and to safely house their horses.

“In the event of future natural disasters, the new commercial kitchen in the Northern Agricultural Association Tearooms will provide affected locals somewhere to cook a meal, offering a safe central space in their time of need.

“This is an example of the NSW Government backing community projects that boost preparedness for natural disasters, encourage economic recovery, aid tourism and bring people together.”

Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi said the upgrades would benefit the community all year around.

“These renos will ensure the Singleton region is better equipped for events like the 2024 Singleton Show and will attract more events to the region.

“Importantly it also means the community will have access to better, commercial-grade facilities if another natural disaster strikes.

“Our Government is pleased to partner with the NSW Government to deliver this upgrade, and will continue to deliver for disaster recovery in the Hunter region.”

Northern Agricultural Association President Deb Townsend said the tearooms are an important part of the showground.

“They help to feed our hungry patrons who flock through the gates each year to attend community functions,” she said.

“This refurbishment will ensure the facility meets modern food handling standards and will greatly improve our volunteer’s ability to prepare a large number of meals safely, hygienically and in air-conditioned comfort, whilst maintaining the heritage feel and fit to our grounds.

“We are thankful for the Australian and NSW Government’s support, through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.”