$9.2 Million for Corowa Saleyards redevelopment

Published on 09 October 2020

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Member for Albury Justin Clancy today announced $9.2 million in NSW Government funding for significant infrastructure upgrades and the installation of new technology at the Corowa Saleyards.

“This will help local businesses create new jobs, boost trade and attract investment,” said Mr Clancy.

“The funding will expand the Corowa Saleyards Precinct, which will improve facilities, improve animal welfare and teach young people practical skills.

“A new roof will be built over the existing facility to protect stock, staff and visitors from extreme weather conditions while a new water catchment system, upgraded lighting system and solar power will help reduce costs.

“The project includes the construction of a new multi-purpose learning centre in a partnership with NSW Tafe, which will provide young people with the opportunity to learn practical skills that will help them find a job in the agriculture sector,” Mr Clancy said.

“The expansion and upgrade  of the existing truck wash facility and the construction of a new commercial weigh station will also provide added convenience and safety to truck operators using the facility.”

Federation Council Mayor Pat Bourke said today’s funding announcement is very much welcomed by Council, who have been working diligently on the overall masterplan for the Corowa Saleyards for some time.

“This funding commitment by the NSW State Government is so important, and will ensure that the strategic vision for this fantastic facility can continue to be bought to fruition,” Mayor Bourke said.

“This significant injection will deliver some key critical stages, as part of the overall masterplan for the site.  The projects focus on animal welfare, environmental responsibility, growth, safety, and to allow further future opportunities for the Corowa Saleyards to be unlocked in a holistic and strategic manner. 

“The delivery of the projects made possible from this funding, will not only improve the Saleyards facility, but will go a long way in supporting the resilience of our local economy and wider agricultural trading market.

“We are so grateful to the NSW State Government, including our local Member Justin Clancy for his hard work, and Nationals Leader and Deputy Premier John Barilaro, who has visited this site previously, for this funding opportunity.  I’d also like to pay special thanks to our Councillors on the Saleyards Committee, and all Councillors and Council staff, along with our agents and other stakeholder representatives on the Saleyards committee.

“This new investment complements Council’s strong track record of investing back into the facility, including most recently the $430,000 allocation to construct new auctioneer walkways overhead and the construction of 29 new selling pens.”

Around 600,000 head of sheep pass through the Corowa Saleyards annually, generating average sales of more than $81 million, and these upgrades will allow even more stock and sellers to make use of the facility, boosting sales and revenue.

Mr Clancy said the infrastructure upgrades and new facilities will provide positive economic flow-on effects for local businesses and suppliers.

“The Corowa Saleyards has a proud history spanning more than 60 years, with significant market growth during the past decade, despite a number of challenges such as long term drought, and the more recent challenges with COVID-19.

“These upgrades will enhance Corowa’s reputation as a superior livestock selling facility, attracting additional visitors and traders, who will spend money in local stores, providing flow on benefits for local businesses and suppliers.

“This significant funding grant will also provide immediate economic stimulus by generating work for the tradies and suppliers who will be engaged to deliver the project.” 

Pictured from left to right: Mayor Federation Council, Cr Pat Bourke, President of the Corowa Associated Stock Agents Steve Grantham and Member for Albury Justin Clancy.  

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