A $7.5 million redevelopment of the Warwick Saleyards will boost the Southern Downs’ thriving agriculture sector.
So says leader of The Nationals and Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud who last month joined members of Southern Downs Regional Council for a sod-turning ceremony to officially mark the start of the project.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor, Cr Vic Pennisi said the investment aimed to remove obstacles identified in relation to the “safety of beast and the safety of man“.
“It’s an investment in agriculture“ he said.
“Agriculture is the biggest industry in the Southern Downs and this is an investment in the future of that.“
Made possible by a $4.5 million grant from the former Coalition Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery grants program, the upgrade aims to support the region’s primary producers by expanding the facility’s capacity, as well as improving safety for both livestock and producers.
Mr Littleproud said the project would give the region a “major economic boost“.
“The Warwick Saleyards have been a key pillar of the Southern Downs economy for generations and this upgrade will ensure the community will continue to flourish for decades to come,” he said.
“Stakeholders throughout the supply chain from buyers, to processors, to selling agents, transporters and, importantly livestock, will all benefit from this project, as will other local businesses that have supplied materials and labour to help make it a reality.
“I’m incredibly honoured to have helped secure the federal funds that have helped bring this project to life and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it has on the Southern Downs in the years ahead.”
Weather permitting, stage one of the project is expected to be completed by the end of this month, with the second and final stage expected to be completed by the beginning of June.
