Upgraded facilities at Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets officially open

 

Dubbo Mayor Councillor Mathew Dickerson in the company of Deputy Mayor, Councillor Ben Shields, Chair of the Saleyards Advisory Committee Councillor Allan Smith and Chair of the Stock and Station Agents Association David Armitage, officially opened the upgraded sheep facilities at the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets today (Wednesday 25 February).

Councillors, Council staff, Dubbo Stock and Station Association members and contractors were present to witness the opening of the newly redeveloped and upgraded DRLM facilities, which will cater for an additional 9,000 sheep.

The additional yards increase the number of sheep that can be sold from purpose built sheep yards to approximately 30,000 for each sale day.

Dubbo Mayor Councillor Mathew Dickerson said the sale yards have been operating for more than 50 years and is a major contributor to the regional economy.

"This latest upgrade is helping secure the future of Dubbo as one of the nation’s major regional livestock selling centres," Councillor Dickerson said.

"In the 2013/2014 financial year, 1,588,704 sheep were sold, ranking Dubbo third in NSW for sheep sales.

"An economic impact analysis for 2013/2014 showed the economic contribution of the DRLM to the gross regional product of the region was $75.6 million.

Features of the $4.1 million upgrade are new drafts, delivery pens, six additional loading ramps, new security cameras, floodlighting, water in every yard and new tree plantings for shade.

A new truck parking area and access road have also been constructed.

Dubbo City Council’s Director Corporate Development, Ken Rogers said five contractors worked on the upgrade.

"Separate contracts were awarded to JLE Electrical, Central West Civil Pty Ltd, Laser Plumbing, Proway Livestock and David Payne Constructions for various components," Mr Rogers said.

"The designs and construction was done in consultation with the Dubbo Stock and Station Agents Association to ensure the facilities meets the needs of buyers and producers.

"All parties are already very happy with the result and the improvements that have been made," Mr Rogers said.

For more information visit Dubbo City Council