The work is part of a $2.606 million project to be undertaken by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in partnership with the federal Coalition government.

This week I inspected the site of the proposed upgrade, with mayor Peta Pinson to announce $1.27 million in funding under the federal Coalition government's Community Development Grants program to allow the project to get underway.

Council has identified Bago Road as a major priority, particularly given the number of heavy vehicles which use this important local arterial.

I'm delighted to be able to announce additional funding has been secured to upgrade this important part of our region's road network.

The upgrade builds on the recent improvements to Bago Road, with this stage including further road pavement strengthening, shoulder widening, resurfacing and line marking.

Through the week I also encouraged local agricultural societies to apply for funds from a new federal program designed to boost our much loved agricultural shows.

The $20 million Regional Agricultural Show Development Grants Program (AgShows) provides funding to upgrade, maintain, buy or build, new showground infrastructure and attractions.

Agricultural shows are part of our national identity and are thriving hubs of local industry, commerce, culture and community.

They showcase the pinnacle and pride of local produce that often span generations of tradition and know-how. However, they are not huge money-making operations and the staging of shows is a costly exercise.

Grants can be used for repairs or upgrades of existing showground facilities such as outdoor seating; new infrastructure such as a grandstand; assets like portable sheep holding yards, or attractions such as an agricultural virtual reality exhibit.

Applications close December 13, 2019, with successful applicants expected to be announced in the first half of 2020. For more details and to apply visit GrantConnect at grants.gov.au.