The Nationals in Government have committed $2.7 million to upgrade the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange to support the Hunter’s thriving beef industry.
The upgrade will greatly expand holding yards and feeding areas, make it easier to load and unload cattle, provide new carpark facilities, improve gates and flooring, and increase water storage capabilities.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said cattle saleyards were vital pieces of infrastructure to support Australia’s thriving beef industry.
“The Hunter is an important area for beef production and investing in the infrastructure we need to maximise efficiencies will put more food on the table for Australians as well as bringing in export dollars,” Mr Joyce said.
“The beef industry is very important to supporting employment in the Hunter and this funding will enable the Hunter saleyards to operate at a higher capacity to support the agriculture industry and create jobs in the region.”
Federal Nationals Candidate for Hunter James Thomson said the saleyards were incredibly important to the local area.
“This is all about strengthening agriculture in the Hunter, supporting local jobs and businesses and backing the families who work hard to feed our nation,” Mr Thomson said.
“Our beef is exported all around the world and we want to see more steaks on the dinner table coming from the Hunter.”
Singleton Mayor Sue Moore said “On behalf of the Singleton community I very much welcome the announcement of $2.7 million for this wonderful project.
“Agriculture has always and will always play a very significant role in the economy and social fabric of Singleton.
“Amongst other things, this project will allow us to grow the capacity of the saleyards, increase returns for local stakeholders and improve animal welfare.
“We look forward to working with the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange group to deliver the project.”
Only the Nationals in Government will support our regions with the strong infrastructure they need, enabled by sound economic management. In contrast, Labor has no plans to increase employment opportunities, infrastructure or the cost of living for the Hunter.
