Charters Towers Regional Council is continuing to consult with stakeholders on the development of an evidence-based Business Case and Master Plan, to guide future investment at the Dalrymple Saleyards.

Council has engaged consultants AEC Group and StruXi Design to review work previously undertaken and, after an onsite assessment and engaging with stakeholders, prepare a Master Plan with a strategy for implementation.

AEC Group and StruXi Design representatives will be at the Saleyards to view operations and engage with stakeholders to better understand the challenges facing and opportunities surrounding the Saleyards and hear ideas on Wednesday, 22 March 2023.

Mayor Frank Beveridge said the project will bring many benefits to the Region, including positioning Council to capitalise on opportunities such as the State Government’s Queensland Beef Processing Strategy 2019-2022, which aims to support the growth of the state’s beef processing industry.

“The Saleyards is a vital link in the beef processing chain across Northern Queensland for cattle sales and live export.

“Our goal is to ensure investment in this facility aligns with stakeholder priorities, facilitates growth, and creates a future-fit Saleyards,” said Mayor Beveridge.

Redevelopment of the Saleyards will not only grow capacity and capability to meet industry demands, but Council is keen for it to also address numerous issues such as aging infrastructure.

Council hopes to incorporate energy efficiency, environmentally friendly practices, and innovative initiatives into the plans to create long term savings, protection of the environment, animal welfare, operational safety, and to facilitate sustainable reuse of resources.

“We firmly believe that by investing in this facility, we can deliver additional economic stimulus to the region, improved animal welfare and user safety, just to name a few of the positive outcomes expected to come from the project well into the future,” continued Mayor Beveridge.