The Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) is partnering with the Grant District Council to establish a livestock effluent disposal pit at the Mount Gambier Saleyards.

The project is funded under the Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, administered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. Saleyards manager David Wallis said preliminary works on the facility commenced in March.

“The newly installed pit will provide an opportunity for transporters to dispose of accumulated livestock effluent either at the end of their journey to the saleyards, or on their way to deliver a consignment further afield,” he said.

“Evidently there are too few locations for transporters to properly dispose of effluent along the road network. “The ALRTA offered $50,000 (ex GST) in funding to support planning and construction of an effluent disposal bay.

“Council will deliver this project to effectively provide an opportunity for livestock transporters to dispose of effluent in eastern South Australia.” ALRTA President Scott McDonald said managing effluent in transit was a significant challenge for members.

“Effluent capture tanks installed on purpose-built livestock trailers do a reasonable job of containment however there is a consequential need for transporters to access suitable facilities for effluent disposal when tanks become full in transit and at ‘end of journey’ facilities,” he said.

“Livestock effluent disposal facilities benefit the livestock supply chain and the community. “They improve safety by ensuring cleaner roads and improved animal welfare outcomes and help to reduce the risk of non-compliance with biosecurity, environment and load restraint laws.

“That’s why the ALRTA is actively engaging with industry stakeholders and governments to develop a national network of effluent disposal points. “Our association greatly appreciates the support of the livestock transport industry demonstrated by Grant District Council.”