The Southern Downs’ thriving agriculture sector has been given a boost with work on the $7.5 million redevelopment of the Warwick Saleyards now under way.
Leader of The Nationals and Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud joined members of Southern Downs
Regional Council for a sod-turning ceremony to officially mark the start of the project on Monday.
Made possible by a $4.5 million grant from the former Coalition Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program, the upgrade aims to support the region’s primary producers by expanding the facility’s capacity as well as improve safety for both livestock and producers.
Mr Littleproud said the project would give the region, which was impacted by the 2019 Black Summer Bushfires, a major economic boost.
“The Warwick Saleyards have been a key pillar of the Southern Downs economy for generations and this upgrade will ensure the community will continue to flourish for decades to come,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Stakeholders throughout the supply chain from buyers, to processors, to selling agents, transporters and importantly livestock will all benefit from this project, as will other local businesses that have supplied materials
and labour to help make it a reality.
“I’m incredibly honoured to have helped secure the federal funds that have helped bring this project to life and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it has on the Southern Downs in the years ahead.”
Weather permitting, stage one of the project is expected to be completed by the end of March this year with the second and final stage expected to be completed by the beginning of June.
