Member for Ripon and Minister for Agriculture Joe Helper said the funding, provided through the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program, will enable the Ararat Agricultural Show Society to construct a small office with storage space and work station.

"The Ararat Show is always an annual highlight and I'm delighted the Brumby Government has backed this very worthwhile project,'' Mr Helper said.

"The funding will enable the Ararat Agricultural Show Society to construct a permanent small office with storage space and work station and make a positive difference to their working environment.

"I'd like to congratulate the Ararat Agricultural Show Society for their efforts in securing funding and wish them every success with this year's show.''

Mr Helper said the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program provides valuable funds to agricultural and pastoral societies for small-scale projects, many of which are of direct benefit to rural communities.

"Almost $2 million in grants have been awarded in this program since 2000 and it recognises the important role that agricultural and pastoral societies play in local communities,'' he said.

"Showgrounds are a much valued asset providing recreational opportunities for local communities and are the centrepiece for the agricultural and pastoral industries to display their products.''

More information on the agricultural and pastoral society grants can be found by visiting the website www.dpi.vic.gov.au/farming/grants.