Work on new Mount Gambier saleyard ramps underway

The two adjustable cattle ramps have both rear and side loading options that will cater for both B Doubles and A Doubles. It is expected the new ramps will improve loading and unloading times and efficiency, resulting in less downtime, reduced waiting periods and quicker turnarounds.

The new electronic ramps will be completed by August.

District Council of Grant Mayor Richard Sage said the project marked the start of Council's plan to transform the Saleyards.

"As part of our Saleyard Masterplan we have secured funding to install new electronic loading ramps, which will allow for more efficient and safer loading of cattle at the yards," he said.

"We want our yards to be the go to destination for the sale of cattle and sheep in the region and to do this we need to provide facilities that meet the needs of the users."

Council is awaiting the outcome of a federal government funding application which, if successful, would allow for a total transformation of the Saleyards including roofing, major upgrades to the pens and installing softfall and solar panels.

Futureproofing the saleyards is the Council's next priority according to councillor Barry Kuhl, the presiding member of the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards Strategy Committee.

"There are major economic benefits brought about through the saleyards," he said.

"People come to sell cattle and then use services across the area which puts money back into the local economy.

"By redeveloping the saleyards we are confident that the investment will payoff through increased sales and bringing more people into the region.

"We will also be improving the energy efficiency of the facility by installing solar panels and increasing our water catchment".

The $964,000 ramps project has been jointly funded by the State Government's Regional Growth Fund and council.

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