Bega MP Dr Michael Holland (third left) meets with members of the Cobargo Showground Society. Photo: NSW Government.
The Cobargo Showground, which hosts the town’s renowned folk festival and its popular rural show, has received a $350,000 upgrade that will benefit all users.
The money came from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund and allowed the construction of a fully accessible amenities block and stormwater drainage system as well as the installation of a large rainwater tank, new paving, concrete stairs and handrails.
The works were completed for the 126th Cobargo Show and Cobargo Folk Festival, both of which are hosted at the showground.
“With organisers now able to offer a much more accessible venue, this year’s festival has just been declared their best ever, with 21 per cent increase in attendance, resulting in an aggregate of 9000 visitors over the weekend and generating an estimated $2 million for the local economy,” a government spokesperson said.
Due to the upgrade, the showground is now also suitable for weddings, receptions and other events.
Cobargo Showground land manager Greg Holland said the upgrades were associated with a 20 per cent increase in bookings compared to the previous year.
“This is not just about providing a space that’s being used once or twice a year. It’s about creating a better facility for the reserve, and a lasting asset for the whole community,” he said.
“The new amenities block has made a real difference for people attending the show and the folk festival, and the upgraded pathways and grounds make the venue safer and more accessible for everyone.”
Cobargo Folk Festival’s 2025 event was its most successful yet. Photo: NSW Government.
Yuin Folk Club director Zena Armstrong said the improvements made the two major South Coast events much more sustainable.
“At a time when so many festivals are falling by the wayside, ours is going from strength to strength,” she said.
“Having a beautiful place like the showground, which we use to its full advantage, makes a huge difference.”
Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said the $350,000 government investment helped make the site safer, more accessible and more inviting for all while boosting local tourism and community participation.
“With events like the Cobargo Show and folk festival drawing thousands of visitors and supporting the local economy, it’s fantastic to see the showground continuing to thrive as a vibrant hub for Cobargo and the broader Bega Valley,” he said.
The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund supports Crown land managers by providing funding for repairs, maintenance and improvements to Crown reserves.
