The Southern Downs Regional Council has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the Warwick Saleyards, a crucial hub for the region’s livestock industry, by funding minor variations to existing works and future stages.
These improvements aim to elevate the facility’s workplace health and safety standards, as well as animal welfare standards.
Following the successful completion of Stage 1 and the commencement of Stage 2, Stage 3 will focus on upgrading the sheep yards, while Stage 4 will improve access to animal loading ramps and build new car parking facilities.
In response to user requests, the council will also fund the splitting of the 120 selling pens in Stage 1 into 240 pens to increase head numbers, as well as making changes to the Stage 2 pen layout.
At the ordinary meeting of council on Wednesday 19 June, Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said she looked forward to more works progressing at the saleyards for the economic benefit of the region.
“The Warwick Saleyards are a vital part of the region’s livestock industry and Council’s ongoing investment reflects our dedication to fostering the economic growth of our agricultural sector,” Cr Hamilton said.
“While we have not been able to fund all of the agent requests, Council will continue to seek external funding through other Government sources.
“These latest budgeted works reaffirm council’s vision for a thriving and sustainable future for the region and supports our broader commitment to attract more business to the facility.
“By continuing to upgrade the facility as budget and funding becomes available, we acknowledge that the Warwick Saleyards are a vital hub for livestock trading and economic prosperity for our producers.”
New Council Funded Works at a Glance:
Splitting 120 new selling pens in half via a new gate and adding 120 new troughs, creating a total of 240 pens.
Pen layout adjustments to Stage 2 to accommodate agent requests.
Stages 3 and 4 Works Include:
A sheep yard with a soft shade over the fat lamb area.
A new administration office for the sheep yards.
NLIS equipment.
Light pole reprofile and gravel hardstand in front of ramps.
Demolition of Z yards and creation of a gravel carpark (submitted for funding through the Queensland Government Works 4 Queensland Program).
The $7.5 million Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project has been co-funded by the Federal Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grant Program and the Council.
Additionally, following requests from stakeholders, the Council has funded an additional $1 million in variations for Stage 1, including the provision of structural posts for a future roof and other ancillary works.
