- Published:
- Tuesday 17 November 2015
The much-needed redevelopment of the Wangaratta Saleyards is on track, with Premier Daniel Andrews today officially launching the project ahead of its expected completion by January 2016.
Joined by the Member for Northern Victoria, Jaclyn Symes, Mr Andrews toured the saleyards where construction is underway on the $3.7 million project, which received $500,000 from the Andrews Labor Government.
A key election commitment, the redevelopment will improve the safety and amenity of the saleyards, reduce costs and save water – which is increasingly important during these ongoing dry conditions.
Once complete, the saleyards will benefit from new roofing over the existing yards, soft flooring, dust suppression system, lighting and stormwater drainage, yard modification, a new auctioneer’s walkway and a new stormwater capture and reuse system.
The new roofing and structural steel works were completed in recent weeks and the project is on track for completion by the end of January.
The redevelopment will boost the saleyards’ share of live cattle sales in Victoria and is expected to create up to 36 new jobs across the region, while increasing local economic activity by up to $5.5 million per annum. The upgrade is due to be completed later this year.
The saleyards are the second largest in Victoria’s north east, hosting 65 sales annually with a throughput of about 50,000 cattle - accounting for 5 per cent of cattle auctioned state wide.
The facility employs eight people directly, and contributes a further 95 full times jobs to the region.
Benefits of the project also include safety improvements, enhanced comfort for patrons and stock, reductions in operational costs through reduced cleaning and water and compost reuse facilities.
The $500,000 is funded from the Labor Government’s $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, with the Rural City Council of Wangaratta providing funds of close to $2.8 million towards the project.
The Labor Government has also provided $500,000 to upgrade the Euroa Saleyards.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“I grew up on a beef farm here in Wangaratta. I know how important the saleyards are to our farmers and their families.”
“We’re getting on with delivering this important redevelopment as soon as possible.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“This redevelopment will not only create local jobs, it will boost economic growth across the region and increase export potential for local farmers.”
“Supporting projects like this is the aim of our $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which will support major projects, create jobs and build stronger regional communities.”