“Bellingen Showground is a local icon and is home to the annual Global Carnival and will celebrate its centenary in 2011,” Mr Kelly said.

“A committed local trust board manages the showground on behalf of the people of NSW.

“The plan has been jointly funded by the Land and Property Management Authority and Bellingen Council and provides a strong framework to address the management challenges facing the showground whilst maximising opportunities for its future public use and enjoyment.

“It is vital to support small country showgrounds like Bellingen which have long been an important recreational and social feature of many rural communities”

Issues addressed by the plan include:

• Expanded range of opportunities for public recreation and community use

• Improved operational systems and partnerships

• Improved facilities and infrastructure

• Environmental and heritage management

• A range of strategies to support the long-term financial sustainability of the showground

The draft plan can be viewed at the Grafton Office of the Land and Property Management Authority, Bellingen Council Chambers and Bellingen Public Library. It is also be available on the LPMA website at www.lpma.nsw.gov.au.

Written submissions can either be forwarded to the LPMA Grafton office or emailed to CLWR.NorthCoast@lpma.nsw.gov.au by 19 November 2009.

“The Rees Government is committed to investing in the future of regional communities and encourage more people to use Crown reserves for recreation,” Mr Kelly said.