MOUNT Gambier Combined Agents chairman David Creek has dubbed the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards “very work safe aware” following the closure of one of its ramps due to safety concerns.
“Ramp C” at the facility was left unused in recent weeks with concerns around its safety gate but Mr Creek said the saleyards – operated by Grant District Council – was not at fault.
“There was a minor alteration to the ramp this week,” he said.
“But otherwise it was in good overall condition and quite safe.
“The issue was between Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Victoria and SafeWork SA – we do the absolute most to ensure we have everything here up to scratch when it comes to occupational health and safety at the saleyards.”
With the ramp reopening this week, Mr Creek said the alterations came at the perfect time for the facility.
“Closing the ramp has not caused too much of an impact at this time of year,” he said.
“But we have our foot right on the pulse of numbers coming in so it was really important to have it up and running again as soon as possible.
“It is the best and most used ramp at the saleyards, so to make sure it was functioning safely and completely was something we were focused on.
“We have deadlines to meet and if we do not have the extra ramp to use during busy periods, it really holds everything up along all parts of the supply chain.”
