Long Term Vision, Short Term Actions for the Moree Saleyards

An onsite meeting at the Moree Livestock Selling Centre (MLSC) was held yesterday, 22 February, with representatives from Council and the Moree Livestock Selling Agents Association in order to progress an urgent plan for returning the site to a safe operating standard.

Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Cr Mark Johnson, Deputy Mayor Cr Susannah Pearse, Cr Kelly James and Cr Brooke Sauer met with representatives from the Moree Livestock Selling Agents Association (The Association), including President Hamish Hosegood and Secretary Andrew Pitman. The group discussed not only the immediate issues but also the longer-term needs of the site and local industry.

“Closing the saleyards was a tough decision and we understand the issues it has caused for users of the facility, but the community and stock safety is paramount”, said Cr Johnson.

“We are pleased to have had a highly productive meeting with the Association, where all parties have committed to working together to ensure that the facility is back up and running as soon as possible.”

“A detailed risk assessment will be undertaken as the highest priority, which will create a scope of works. From there, Council and the Association will consider the costs of works and prioritise urgent repairs”, added Cr Johnson.

Cr Johnson said a separate options review, planning for the longer-term needs of the MLSC and local industry is still underway.

“The saleyards are over 50 years old and since late last year Council, the Association and key stakeholders have engaged with the consultants AEC Group Pty Ltd to identify its future requirements and options”, said Cr Johnson.

“Council recognises the long and strong history of livestock production in the Moree Plains and remains committed to supporting the local industry into the future.”

AEC Group Pty Ltd will deliver their report by the end of May for consideration by Council.

Cr Johnson added, “Council and the Association’s working relationship has always been a productive one and yesterday’s meeting was no exception. I thank them again for their assistance.”

Council will continue to update the community and again apologises for the inconvenience caused by the MLSC’s closure.

Photo (from left): Cr Kelly James, MLSSA President Hamish Hosegood, Cr Brooke Sauer, Mayor Mark Johnson, Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse and MLSSA Secretary Andrew Pitman.