The Liberals have pledged to allocate $2 million to acquire land for a state-of-the-art livestock handling facility to replace the ageing Boyanup saleyards if they are re-elected in March.
Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Lewis said the Liberals were committed to the growth and development of the state’s meat and livestock industries.
He said In 2014/15 live cattle exports were valued at $236.7 million, beef at $192.8 million, live sheep exports at $192.2 million and sheep meat at $329.3 million.
“This funding recognises that high-quality, well-located and well-maintained sales infrastructure is vital for efficient sheep and cattle production and the development of supply chains for both export and domestic markets,” Mr Lewis said.
“A Liberal Government will work with the Capel Shire and industry to ensure an orderly transition from the existing saleyards at Boyanup to a new facility in the South West before the current lease with the shire expires in 2022.”
Minister Lewis said the commitment would provide certainty for the industry in the region.
“More than 60,000 head of livestock go through the Boyanup saleyards each year and they have provided a crucial service for trading store or feeder cattle and also provide dairy farmers with an outlet for dairy calves and cull cows,” he said.
“However, the saleyards lease with the Capel Shire expires in 2022 and is unlikely to be renewed given the site’s development potential and close proximity to the Boyanup town site.”