David Hawker

Country Shows at Risk

9 September 2009

LABOR PUTS COUNTRY SHOWS AT RISK Show season is nearly upon us again but Federal Member for Wannon, David Hawker, warns that Labor Government changes to award rates could force many local shows out of existence. “Labor’s attempts to modernise award wages have seen unrealistic and inflexible working hours and penalty rates proposed for a range of industries,” Mr Hawker said. “Fortunately the horticultural and agricultural sectors have shouted loud enough to bring about a back flip from the Labor Government, but we are still waiting for Ms Gillard to intervene on new awards which will debilitate rural events like country shows, field days and even sporting events.” Mr Hawker said Labor’s new award changes lump together country shows and field days in the same category as Luna Park and the MCG.

“Many country show committees, from Coleraine and Casterton to Ararat and Stawell, will find themselves running at a loss if overtime and public holiday rates are applied to people working at the show, like ground staff or the operators of rides and other amusements,” he said. Mr Hawker also holds concerns for country sporting events, like local race days that are held on a Sunday. “Labor’s current formula for award modernisation is a recipe for job destruction,” he said. “If it’s more expensive to attend country shows and field days people are going to think twice about going. “Labor promised their award overhaul wouldn’t cost jobs and wouldn’t increase costs for employers, yet here they are again, caught out breaking more promises,” Mr Hawker said. - ENDS - Media contact: Jane Templeton (03) 5572 1100