THE future of the Orange showground has been assured with councillors approving construction of a massive pavilion which will open up the site to a number of new uses.
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With an area of 3200 metres when complete, the pavilion will be capable of hosting much more than a winter farmers’ market or a bird show.
Indoor sporting activities and displays such as car shows which require a vast amount of space will have a suitable venue.
It could also be a wet weather venue for major community events which take place during FOOD Week or Wine Week.
For those who have followed the fortunes of the showground over the last few years the decision to push ahead with the multi-purpose building brings to an end a long period of uncertainty about its future.
Regardless of what development eventually takes place at Towac Park racetrack, it can no longer be seen as an alternative to the showground.
The protracted debate about whether to develop the racetrack precinct and make it the new home for the showground consumed the time and energy of many people and divided loyalties where no division should have existed.
Now with a building of this size and cost designated for the showground, the show society and other stakeholders should expect opposition to disappear.
There will be opportunities to host regular sporting events and occasional exhibitions in addition to the current event calendar. Heavier use will mean it will make sense for the city to continue to invest in other site facilities like toilets and parking and pursue grants to help fund development.
A major new pavilion will usher in a new era for the showground, and ensure its location in the centre of Orange where many people want it to be.
