28 November, 2022

A new state-of-the-art truck wash is now in operation at the Gunnedah Regional Saleyards.

The drive-through facility on the Kamilaroi Highway is capable of accommodating vehicles as large as road trains and B-triples and opened on 21 November.

The $1.8 million-dollar project was funded by Regional NSW, Restart NSW Fixing Country Truck Washes Program and Gunnedah Shire Council, and has been completed as part of the multi-million-dollar Saleyards’ redevelopment.

Launched as a single round in 2016, the Fixing Country Truck Washes Program is a $10 million program joint-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments. The program has funded truck wash projects, improving access and efficiency across NSW.

The realignment and modification of Gunnedah’s truck wash allows trucks to move forward into the wash bays and exit from the same direction, making it safer and easier for livestock transporters.

The truck wash was designed following consultation with operators and industry organisations. The feedback and practical ideas received through this process will ensure it meets the needs of the changing industry.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the project highlighted the important role truck washes played in vehicle productivity and maintenance, and in protecting NSW’s biosecurity.

“The upgraded truck wash facility at Gunnedah Regional Saleyards will provide access for all truck operators, including livestock carriers, and has capacity to cater for modern road trains as well,” he said.

“The new truck wash means drivers no longer need to reverse their vehicle to access and use the facility, creating a safer and more efficient wash-down process. Truck washes are essential to reducing the spread of weeds and disease across NSW and I’m pleased to see the new facility opened.”

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said the completion of the truck wash was great news for the livestock industry.

“It’s fantastic to see this new facility now made available to livestock transporters who rely on truck washes to clean their vehicles,” he said.

“This modern and efficient truck wash is a critical piece of infrastructure for those who come from around the region to use our Saleyards.

“Since the introduction of road trains into this region, it’s great to see that transporters now have the ability to wash their vehicles, no matter the size.

“It also means Council can continue to ensure animal effluent is managed in accordance with NSW Environment Protection Authority licensing requirements.

“The new truck wash is just one part of the Saleyards’ redevelopment and we look forward to seeing the rest of the project unfold.”

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the NSW Government were supporting freight and agriculture by providing the infrastructure needed to allow industry to grow.

“Saleyards are the economic engine room of regional communities, bringing millions into country towns while supporting a protein industry that feeds the nation,” Mr Anderson said.

“Gunnedah Saleyards have sold up to $80 million worth of cattle annually in the past few years and carrying all that livestock can be a dirty business which is why it is great that the redevelopment includes a brand new truck wash.

“Speaking to local freight operators, one of their key priorities for Government is upgraded facilities to better support their operation and this new truck wash delivers on that goal.”

In September 2020, the NSW Government announced $14 million for the Gunnedah Regional Saleyards Redevelopment. This has been supported by a Gunnedah Shire Council co-contribution of $3.56 million.

Plans for the precinct include a range of upgrades and innovations:

• Construction of a multi-purpose administration building, comprising of office and administration spaces, a café and outdoor dining area and amenities;
• Construction of new workshop sheds;
• Improvements to infrastructure including gates, fencing, gantries and watering systems;
• Internal lighting upgrades;
• Construction of off-street car parking for light vehicles and a parking/queuing area for heavy vehicles;
• Technological improvements including Wi-Fi and high-speed internet to facilitate future online sales and other smart technology applications;
• Fenced containment of the site and major security upgrades;
• Upgrades of cattle loading/unloading ramps; and
• Making the site more self-sufficient through the installation of up to a 50kW solar system and installation of water tanks with the capacity to hold 1,324kl through major stormwater harvesting and reuse facilities.

Caption: A new truck wash capable of accommodating road trains and B-triples is in operation at Gunnedah Regional Saleyards.