A $63,000 Federal Government grant awarded under the first round of the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program has got the buildings nipped, tucked, botoxed and tanned to look 100 years younger in 100 days... figuratively speaking, of course.

The main pavilion, grandstand, and CWA ladies’ room have each had a re-working both inside and out.

All have been restored to their traditional grandeur in heritage colours with a fresh coat of paint outside and in, and with a refurbished kitchen now under the grandstand, the showgrounds facilities have been brought into the 21st century.

Bruce Petrie, Chairman of the Showground Trust, said the work was much needed and now means the facilities are available for more community use.

He said the showgrounds were used throughout the year for events such as the Tenterfield Show, auctions, sheep dog and pony club events, but he hoped they would be more utilised after the recent refurbishments.

“It’s a more functional hall for the community, it’s up to modern health standards and central to the town, so we are looking to get more regular use out of it,” he said.

Local electricians, plumbers and painters have all been employed to carry out the works, and the Trust hopes to attract more in the future. But until then, much of the work will depend on the time and commitment donated by volunteers.

Anyone interested in helping at the showgrounds can get in contact with Tenterfield Show Society secretary Sue Jurd on (02) 6736 1464.