Livestock agents and buyers have joined Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen MP and Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore to celebrate the completion of the $7.73 million Singleton Regional Livestock Market upgrade today.
The project was funded by $6 million from the State Government under its Resources for Regions program, with the remaining $1.73 million from Singleton Council.
Works included a roof over the Northern Yards selling area, almost one kilometre of raised aerial walkways, updates to onsite services, installation of rainwater harvest tanks and upgrade of the intersection leading to the Gresford Road facility.
Contractor Wiley worked with Council’s Major Projects team to deliver the project under budget.
Mr Johnsen said the $6 Million funding provided by the NSW Government under the Restart NSW Resources for Regions program aims to support regional communities and businesses in areas related to mining.
Michael Johnsen – Opening of Singleton Regional Livestock Market Committee Chairman Tony McNamara Michael Johnsen MP Mayor Sue Moore
“Beef production is big business in both Singleton and our region for local famers and suppliers, and I am proud that the Nationals in Government ensured that this funding was possible,” Mr Johnsen said.
“This will allow the Singleton Regional Livestock Market to meet the current demands of our local beef producers and provide the regional infrastructure for the growth of this vital industry, and this upgrade will help contribute to the diversify of our Singleton economy,” Mr Johnsen concluded.
Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore, said the project was an investment in the diversity of the Singleton economy as well as a demonstration of confidence in the future of the agricultural industry.
“This site has a long history of livestock sales that crosses generations of Singleton families, and this project means future generations can keep up that tradition but in keeping with modern standards and practices,” she said.
“I have no doubt the Singleton facility will now be held up as a standard for livestock markets in our region and beyond, and will continue to be an important component of our local economy.
“I thank Mr Johnsen and the State Government for their foresight and contribution that will bring enormous benefits to our community beyond the cost of this project, as well as everyone who was involved in making it a reality.”
Anthony Egan, Council’s Director Corporate and Community, said the upgraded facility meant the Singleton Regional Livestock Market would meet industry standards now and into the future.
“Singleton can now boast a facility with a roof, almost a kilometre of aerial walkways and a range of environmental measures including a 500,000 litre rainwater tank to supply drinking water to cattle,” he said.
“Council acknowledges the staff, agents and buyers for their patience and cooperation during construction and is confident the end result more than compensates for any difficulties during the past eight months.”
