Upper Hunter Show Society president Keith Googe told the Muswellbrook Chronicle a number of valuations had been carried out on the showground land, with varied results.

There has been speculation about the future of the showground for several years, with some residents opposed to both the sale of the land and the relocation of the venue.

“Over the past six months we have undertaken a feasibility study with an independent group of local people,” Mr Googe said.

“It was headed up by (former National Rugby League boss) John Quayle and included local businesspeople.

“We wanted to take the emotion out of the decision (to sell the showground) and through that study, it has shown us that it is feasible to move, but it all really depends on what the showground is worth.”

Mr Googe said by seeking expressions of interest it would give the committee a value for the land, before deciding “if the numbers add up”.

When asked where the showground would move to, Mr Googe said it was too early to elaborate.

“There is appropriate land available that would meet our needs,” he told the Chronicle.

“We are excited that we are making a positive step forward.”