NSW Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has welcomed a major jobs and investment boost for Casino, with the announcement that McCaughey Group will develop a new cold storage and blast freeze facility in Australia’s beef capital.
The NSW Government will contribute just over $4 million towards the project through the Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program, with McCaughey Group matching the investment, bringing the total project value to more than $8 million.
Mr Williamson said the new facility will become a national distribution hub for the McCaughey Group and will also provide third-party storage and distribution services to support other local businesses in the Northern Rivers.
“This export-accredited facility will open up new domestic and international market opportunities for local producers,” Mr Williamson said.
“It will significantly enhance supply chain efficiency for agricultural producers, food manufacturers and distributors, improving business viability and encouraging further reinvestment and job creation in Casino.”
CEO of McCaughey Group, Phillip McCaughey, said it’s wonderful news for the company and the entire Northern Rivers region.
“To have this project endorsed and supported by the NSW Government, our local State MP Richie Williamson, and Richmond Valley Council, demonstrates their commitment to delivering job security, economic growth, and resilience to regional NSW, and I thank them all for that. We look forward to delivering on this project and seeing the benefits it will bring,” Mr McCaughey said.
The development is fully approved, and with government funding now secured, construction is set to move ahead later this year.
“I congratulate the McCaughey Group for their vision and confidence to invest, grow their business, and employ locals right here in Casino,” Mr Williamson said.
“This is great news for our regional economy and a real vote of confidence in the future of Casino as a key player in Australia’s food production and export industries.”
