Stage Two of the Euroa Saleyards Redevelopment project was officially opened today by Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Jaala Pulford.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford said the project to upgrade and modernise the saleyard was possible thanks to a $500,000 grant from the Labor Government.
The upgrade protects the future of the Euroa Saleyards including the 20 jobs dependent on the facility, alongside improving safety for staff and the wellbeing of the livestock.
The Stage Two upgrade included:
- Relocating overhead power lines
- Constructing a laneway to improve the transport of cattle between the roofed pens, holding yards, loading bays and scales
- Finalising roof extensions to cover 32 pens and the scales area
- Improving water conservation measures including full stormwater capture for reuse within the facility
- Replacing the concrete floor in the office/meeting room
- Upgrading the kiosk/office including air-conditioning, exhaust fans, benchtops and vinyl flooring.
The Euroa Saleyards is a major cattle-selling centre for the region with each of the 14 annual sale days generating up to $2 million in sales. The upgraded works will safeguard the sustainability of the saleyards into the future and improve its financial viability by reducing operational costs by $5000 every year.
The upgrades ensure the saleyards meet European Union accreditation standards.
The Labor Government supported the Strathbogie Shire to deliver the project, in consultation with the Saleyards Committee and other user groups.
Through its $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund the Government is supporting initiatives across the state that help make regional Victoria a better place to live, work and do business.
“Upgrading the Euroa Saleyards ensures more than 38,000 cattle can pass through the saleyards, while also improving critical infrastructure,” Ms Pulford said.
“This upgrade is great news for local producers looking to boost their export potential and great news for jobs.”
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said upgrading the Euroa Saleyards helped give the region’s livestock producers certainty.
“And importantly it provides a real confidence boost for associated businesses right across the North East.”
