THE 2020 Penola Show may have been called off due to COVID-19, but its organisers continue to make progress, recently adopting a new software system which will streamline digital processes for the major community event.
Designed specifically for shows across the nation, the digital program helps manage competitor registrations, generates results and provides schedules and catalogues as needed.
Funded by a $1950 Stand Like Stone Foundation grant, it is the latest improvement for the Penola Pastoral Agricultural and Horticultural Society, following on from the recent Rymill Hall renovations and the announcement of a new McCorquindale Park Pavilion Shed.
Society secretary Kathy Fennell said volunteers would now use their spare time to learn the digital program’s intricacies.
“We spend a significant amount of time putting entries into the computer manually,” Ms Fennell said.
“With this entries will be able to be placed through forms or the program and those entering will receive their tickets once they have finished.”
Describing the new technology as a speedy data program, Ms Fennell said members hope to have the system operational for the public within a few months.
“As we have more spare time at the moment because we do not have a show this year we are hoping to use that time to practice using the software,” she said.
“It will be very beneficial because of time saving and accuracy and we are very grateful to the Stand Like Stone Foundation for their support.”
Ms Fennell said the society had been lucky in recent months to receiving support in upgrading its facilities.
“We have done very well this year and are looking forward to putting up the new multipurpose shed which we will begin after winter and the Rymill Hall upgrades have been completed which makes access to the hall much easier for everyone,” she said.
“One of our board members is also planning to create a new counter for the society made from wood salvaged from the pavilion which will be a fantastic addition.”
Stand Like Stone director and Penola representative Rhett McDonald said the Penola Coonawarra Wellbeing Sub Fund was established to give grants to charitable projects that benefit the greater Penola Coonawarra region, adding the foundation was delighted to help the show society.
“The Sub Fund itself is supported by a terrific team of local people who want to make a lasting impact for the benefit of the community,” Mr McDonald said.
“We raise money to grow the fund each year, with the interest earned then granted out to local people and projects.
“For the Penola Coonawarra Sub Fund, we just want to contribute to a community that is really worth so much to us and others, which is something anyone can do.”
