Charlotte Varcoe
BRAND new ramps at the Mount Gambier Saleyards were officially opened earlier this week.
The two new state-of-the-art adjustable cattle ramps have both rear and side loading options for b-double and a-double trucks.
This provides increased efficiencies and productivity when loading and unloading cattle while also reducing waiting times to enable quicker turnaround times.
The State Government contributed $385,000 to the project with Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham attending the opening.
“As someone who has led many cattle onto trucks over the years, it is not always an easy thing to do if your facilities are not great,” Mr Basham said.
“It is always a challenge whether they go up or through the ramp so it is great to see these new ones here.
“It will bring so much ease to putting cattle on and off trucks and is great for us to see this at the saleyards.”
He said the project achieved further regional development and growth within the saleyards which was a positive step for the area.
“The state government has supported improvements in the loading ramps and there is also future money going into further upgrades,” Mr Basham said.
“We will continue to work with the saleyards and the federal government to find funding options as the ramps are an important part of improving the efficiencies.
“It is also about making sure there is a nice and safe working environment for loading and unloading cattle.”
Grant District Council Mayor Richard Sage said the state government had always been a great supporter of the saleyards’ strategic committee across the years.
“This shows how we are able to improve the infrastructure for all stakeholders,” Mr Sage said.
“We are excited for future projects at the saleyards and we acknowledge council staff for the delivery of a well-executed project along with local contractors who have done a fantastic job to deliver the ramps.
“These ramps will improve animal health aspects and safety for all its users and is an exciting time for agriculture and the partnership between council and the state government.”
