Livestock selling agents at Warwick are unhappy with the latest redevelopment plans for the Warwick Saleyards believing Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) has backed away from an earlier proposal.
Representatives of the Warwick Livestock Selling Agents Association are reported to have walked out of an information session organised by the Council to update interested parties on the planned upgrade.
The agents claim the plans presented at ther information session were not those agreed to earlier by the Association.
In response to the agents’ reaction, SDRC said it is committed to supporting the region’s biggest industry by delivering the Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project on time and within the current budget allocation.
In a media statement, Council said the $7.5 million project balances immediate infrastructure issues with a future-focused strategy whilst allowing the project to remain viable within a tight budget.
It said Council has worked closely over the years with key industry representatives, including the Warwick Livestock Selling Agents Association, to prioritise the extensive wish list of upgrades needed to secure a sustainable future for the facility.
Council’s Chief Executive Officer Dave Burges acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders to date and was aware of new areas of concern from some parties.
“The Warwick Saleyards is a major economic pillar in the identity of the Southern Downs and the facility has been connecting our rural and agricultural community with stock and station agents for more than 60 years,” Mr Burges said.
“However, the livestock industry has evolved since the saleyards started operating and there is no question that development is needed to ensure the region has quality facilities which meet current animal welfare standards and are safe for workers.
“Council has consulted extensively with the Warwick Livestock Selling Agents Association on addressing the long-term viability of the facility and they supported the design as it was being finalised prior to going to tender.
“With tenders submitted beyond our budget reach amid rising building costs, we have had to reconsider the extent of the first stages of the redevelopment.
“We have looked to determine the best affordable outcome and consulted with the Warwick Livestock Selling Agents Association to put forward affordable options for consideration, while delivering the same yard layout which was endorsed by selling agents in August.
“Unfortunately, the Warwick Livestock Selling Agents Association opted to terminate those discussions.”
Council is proceeding with the project and current design which provides for ground level buyer laneways with a solid roof.
Raised buyer walkways will be considered in future stages of the redevelopment and further consultation will be undertaken once the current stages have been completed and put to use.
It is anticipated that stage 1 will be complete in March 2024 and will deliver 120 new selling pens, five ramps, a new weighbridge, various holding pens and one processing area.
Stage 2 will be completed in May 2024 and includes 14 holding pens, a double deck ramp and an additional processing area.
This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 29 November 2023.
Related story: Work to commence at Warwick saleyards
