The Glen Innes Showground is of state heritage significance and is one of the earliest regional showgrounds established in NSW, having hosted agricultural shows continuously for over a century. It remains a centre of community life, celebrating livestock, rural skills and regional pride year after year. 

At the heart of this history is the Sheep Pavilion, a building that has long supported sheep exhibition, handling and education—reflecting the region’s deep connection to fine wool and pastoral industries that helped shape the New England region and NSW more broadly. 

Today, the Sheep Pavilion is in desperate need of repair.

The in-ground timber posts have rotted and sunk, compromising the structural integrity of the building. Timber sheep pens and gates—essential for safe livestock handling—are damaged and deteriorating. Without urgent intervention, this important heritage structure risks further decline, limiting its use and threatening its long-term survival.

Why this restoration matters

The Glen Innes Showground is not just a historical site—it is a living, working showground that continues to host agricultural events, livestock exhibitions and community gatherings. Preserving the Sheep Pavilion ensures:

• Safe and functional facilities for sheep exhibitors and stewards
• Continued agricultural education and engagement for young people
• Protection of a rare and intact collection of Federation-era showground buildings
• Ongoing use of the showground as a hub for regional events and community connection
• As one of the few showgrounds in NSW to retain a cohesive suite of architect-designed heritage buildings arranged around a central arena, Glen Innes Showground is considered an outstanding example of an “ideal” regional showground.  

How your donation will help

Funds raised through this appeal will go toward:

• Stabilising and repairing rotted in-ground posts
• Restoring and repairing timber sheep pens and gates
• Ensuring the Sheep Pavilion can continue to be used safely for shows, exhibitions and community events

By contributing, you are helping safeguard a place where agricultural traditions are not only remembered—but actively practised and passed on.

Looking to the future

Recent investment has improved accessibility and amenities across parts of the Glen Innes Showground, ensuring the site remains fit for modern use while respecting its heritage value. However, critical livestock infrastructure such as the Sheep Pavilion still requires community and philanthropic support to secure its future. 

All funds raised will be directed toward the restoration of the Glen Innes Heritage Sheep Pavilion.  Should you wish to speak directly to someone about his project, please contact Phil Lynn on 0429 442 211.

The RAS Foundation is an Australian Charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and is endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) by the Australian Taxation Office.