28 August, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Councillors have voted to allocate up to an additional $1.5 million to help fund the $17.55 million Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan Project as part of the Council’s commitment to investing in the local economy.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the decision could take Council’s contribution to the project to up to $3.55 million.

“The State Government has advised Council that to give this project the best chance of securing State funding for the remainder of the cost, we need to contribute extra on top of the funds already committed from existing reserves,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This decision is in line with Gunnedah Shire Council’s dedicated efforts to supporting our community and investing in business and industry in this Shire. We are continuing to find innovative ways to help existing businesses to thrive, and to attract new businesses.

“The Gunnedah Regional Saleyards are already among the country's top 10 cattle-selling centres, with more than $100 million worth of cattle sold each year. We really hope this important project can progress to help develop our role as a protein hub.

"It is a significant step in building the resilience of our economy.

“As well as our support for small businesses through the successful Business Partner Program, Council is working hard to attract investors across a range of industries to build a stronger base of employment and give people even more compelling reasons to move to Gunnedah.”

The Gunnedah Saleyards Master Plan Project includes a number of infrastructure projects including removal of the sheepyards, relocation of the carpark and canteen as part of a multi-use building on the same side of the highway as the saleyards, yard expansion and technology improvements.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.