Should Government support Royal Show Illustration: Don Lindsay
UPDATE: Attendance at the 2023 Perth Royal Show has dramatically decreased, with only 300,000 visitors compared to last year’s record of 438,600. This alarming drop has sparked urgent calls for the Western Australia Government to reinstate subsidies that previously allowed free entry for children and reduced adult tickets to half price.
Families experienced an unusually quiet atmosphere at the Show this year, as Kate Emery, social affairs editor, noted in her recent commentary. She described the event as a far cry from its bustling past, stating that her family easily navigated the grounds without the usual long lines, only waiting two minutes to interact with a barn owl. The stark contrast in crowd size raises critical questions about the event’s financial viability.
The WA Government previously allocated a staggering $5.1 million in 2022, making the Show accessible for families during an election year. However, this year, despite a contribution of over $2 million to reduce child ticket prices, the absence of substantial subsidies has left many questioning the event’s future.
Emery argues that while the Show is meant to showcase the agricultural industry, most attendees are there for entertainment rather than education about farming practices. She pointed out that the rising costs of attending, including a family entry fee of $140 and overpriced ride tickets, do not align with the struggles of families facing a cost-of-living crisis.
The Royal Agricultural Society of WA has faced challenges in maintaining profitability, with its latest report showing an income of $16.4 million against expenses of $16.5 million. The discrepancy highlights the burden of organizing such a large event without adequate financial support.
Next Steps: As the conversation around public funding for the Show intensifies, families and local businesses alike are left wondering how the government will respond. The trend of decreasing attendance may force the RASWA to reconsider its financial strategies, especially as families tighten their belts amidst economic pressures.
Emery’s insights underscore the broader implications of government subsidies and their impact on community events. As the situation develops, stakeholders will be watching closely to see if the WA Government will act to restore funding, ensuring the future of this beloved event remains secure.
