Plans to upgrade the Mount Gambier saleyards are progressing, with 80% of the project design completed.
Grant District Council last week announced the Mount Gambier Districts Livestock Exchange 2030 Transformation had reached the key milestone with Mossop Construction + Interiors, while it awaits Federal funding outcomes.
Mossop Construction + Interiors were awarded with the Transformation Project design only tender in March 2023 and have been working in collaboration with council and other key stakeholders, including the Mount Gambier Combined Agents and Saleyards Strategy Committee to produce the design.
The concept design features a range of elements to assist with increasing better animal welfare outcomes, including soft-fall matting, holding pen reconfigurations, cattle yard roofing, sprinkler systems and rainwater harvesting.
In conjunction with reaching the design milestone, a cattle pen prototype is currently being constructed at the saleyards replicating one of the Transformation Projects proposed configurations.
Chief executive Darryl Whicker said the progression of the concept design allowed the council to position a strong advocacy and hopefully to support a future stage two application demonstrating the projects shovel-readiness.
“This key milestone provides greater certainty of project costs and working alongside Mossop has provided confidence that a fit for purpose solution has been created with genuine stakeholder engagement,” Mr Whicker said.
“Council looks forward to receiving communication about the outcome of our Growing Regions Program Round 1 expression of interest application.”
Mossop Construction + Interiors Business Development Manager Aaron Mossop said it was important to remain working in collaboration to ensure a suitable design is created.
“Mossop welcomes the opportunity to continue to work with council through the initial design development phase, including reaching this key milestone, for this important infrastructure upgrade at the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards,” Mr Mossop said.
“We look forward to seeing construction progress and activities commencing shortly including finalisation of the grant funding for the balance of the project.”
Mount Gambier and District Saleyards Strategy Committee Presiding Member and Councillor Barry Kuhl reaffirmed the project was a critical piece to the region’s agricultural landscape.
“The saleyards are an excellent example of how council infrastructure provides an essential service to our local community but without upgraded assets in place, such a service cannot be delivered,” Cr Kuhl said.
“Council remains committed to best present the Transformation Project for grant funding with partnerships between Federal, State and local governments to assist increasing the South East’s economy.”
Growing Regions Program Round 1 expression of interest applicants are anticipated to be notified of outcomes in the coming weeks.
