A NEW multi-million dollar dairy complex will be built at the Cadell Training Centre - a low-security prison farm in the Riverland.
Worth more than $3 million, the project is expected to be completed in late 2022, boosting production and capacity for the centre's dairy operation. The existing on-site dairy was built in the 1960s, and is home to about 230 cattle with about 100 cows producing 2200 litres of raw milk each day.
Correctional Services Minister Vincent Tarzia said the project would provide an economic boost for the Riverland and greater opportunity for prisoners "who are dedicated to rehabilitation and integrating back into society".
"At the current facility, about 25 prisoners are employed to milk cows, process and package milk products," Mr Tarzia said.
"Milk products are supplied to other prisons and, in some cases, excess raw product is sold to South Australian businesses for manufacturing cheese."
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The dairy operation is viewed as playing an integral part in the rehabilitation of prisoners through structured working days. Prisoners are encouraged to display self-discipline by arriving for shifts on time and have responsibilities that require ongoing attention, such as caring for the welfare of animals.
"Cadell Training Centre has a large focus on preparing prisoners for successful re-entry into the community when they are released, giving them job skills linked to industry and farming," Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said.
"This new dairy complex development will grow more opportunities for a productive experience for prisoners, help build new skills and reinforce good habits."
"This is about rehabilitation and education with the aim to reduce reoffending, so investment into our region like this creates substantial community benefit."
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