The Goulburn Showgrounds are home to the annual Goulburn Agricultural, Pastoral & Horticultural Society Show, one of the region’s largest and longest‑running community events, attracting families, exhibitors and visitors from across the Southern Tablelands and surrounding areas. The showgrounds also host a wide range of community events, including livestock, sporting, cultural and festival activities throughout the year.

Despite the popularity and scale of events held at the showgrounds, there is a significant lack of seating, which has become the most common complaint from attendees.

Why seating matters

Currently, many visitors are required to stand for long periods or sit on the ground during events. This creates particular challenges for:

• Older community members
• Families with young children
• People with disabilities or mobility limitations
• Carers and support workers

Without adequate seating, some members of the community are unable to comfortably attend or fully participate in events—limiting accessibility and inclusion at a venue designed to bring people together.

Providing well‑placed seating will allow visitors to rest, watch events safely, and enjoy the showgrounds for longer periods, improving the experience for everyone.

The project

This project will install durable, accessible seating at key locations around Goulburn Showgrounds, including high‑traffic and high‑use areas where people naturally gather during events.

The seating will be designed to:

• Improve comfort during long event days
• Support accessibility and inclusion
• Reduce fatigue and fall risk for vulnerable visitors
• Enhance the overall usability of the showgrounds

By addressing this long‑standing issue, the Goulburn Show Society aims to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the community.

Community impact

Installing seating will:

• Encourage greater attendance by seniors and people with accessibility needs
• Support families with young children
• Improve visitor safety and comfort
• Strengthen the showgrounds’ role as a shared community space 

As a venue that already actively welcomes people with access needs, this upgrade will help ensure the showgrounds continue to meet community expectations and remain fit for purpose into the future.