Premier turns first sod of soil at new saleyard site, Redman
Author: Terry Redman
Published on: 04-July-2011
Premier Colin Barnett today inspected the site for a new $21.5million sheep saleyard in the Great Southern.
More than one million sheep are expected to be traded each year through the new yards near Katanning.
“These saleyards are a major contributor to the local economy and a critical part of the infrastructure for livestock in the region,” Mr Barnett said.
“The existing yards were first developed in 1922 and their poor condition has been a source of concern for many years.
“The new saleyards are another example of how this Government makes decisions and gets things done for the benefit of the State.”
The State Government will contribute up to $17million towards the new yards, with the remaining $4.5million provided by the Shire of Katanning which will build, own and operate the saleyards.
Agriculture and Food Minister Terry Redman said the new site would house a modern, fit for purpose saleyard which will meet contemporary standards for animal welfare, environmental management and occupational health and safety.
Mr Redman said the base design included 672 pens under 27,783sqm of roof. It is expected to be open for business early 2013.
In December 2010, the State Government announced $21.5million towards developing and modernising three key regional saleyards. As well as Katanning, funding was provided to assist with the cattle saleyards at Mount Barker and towards planning for replacement facilities for Boyanup.
The Premier said the funding would provide a major boost to Western Australia’s livestock industries and delivered on a major election commitment. It followed the opening of the $54million Muchea Livestock Centre last year.
