A government spokesman said the funding was approved after “careful consideration”, adding it was “not uncommon” to receive requests to support agricultural shows, but did not say if any other shows had been given similar funding. 

“During discussions with the show society, the government was advised it was receiving financial advice and guidance and the show executives indicated that it could continue to trade and deliver the 2018 event,” the spokesman said. 

“Consideration was given to the fact the show organising committee had taken significant steps to revitalise and re-format the show to give it the best chance of success.”

Treasurer Peter Gutwein said the grant was given after consultations, and further assistance would be considered depending on funding availability.

The role the show plays in attracting event providers, service deliveries and activities to other regional and city shows across the state, were considered during the consultation process. 

This year’s show was attended by 10,000 people after it moved from a three-day event to one day.

Show society president Jock Gibson said he expected next year’s event to run similarly. Mr Gibson said the society had approached the government for the funding.

“We’re grateful because without their support it wouldn’t have gone ahead,” he said. 

The government spokesman said the recently announced Agricultural Show Development Grants were a “clear demonstration” the government understood the importance of agricultural shows in Tasmania.