The Mount Gambier & District Saleyards Transformation Project has hit another milestone, with the announcement of the successful tenderer for the projects concept design, as the District Council of Grant prepares for a new Federal funding round to commence.

Following a rigorous tender process, in collaboration with project stakeholders including Local Government Procurement, Combined Agents, Saleyards Strategy Committee and Council staff, the South Australian commercial building contractor Mossop Construction + Design will now commence with creation of the project concept design.

District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Darryl Whicker said the ongoing work demonstrated Council is eager to progress the once in a generation transformation project in 2023.

“After a robust procurement process, Mossop’s demonstrated a clear understanding of our vision for the project,” he said.

“In collaboration with stakeholders, Mossop will now prepare a detailed concept design, so the project is well positioned for an application through the Federal Government’s new Growing Regions Program, which is yet to open.”

“Council is firmly committed to delivering this important project for the community, which aligns with the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards Masterplan 2018-2028.”

Mossop Construction + Interiors Regional Manager, Craig Williamson said the team are eager to begin the design phase of the project.

“Mossop is thrilled to be collaborating with the District Council of Grant in developing a design that responds directly to the local community's vision,” he said.

“Mossop understands the Saleyard Transformation project is a crucial step forward for the region and is in the alignment of the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards Masterplan 2018-2028. Through a collaborative approach, we are committed to developing a high quality, cost effective, efficient design which will add value to the region and improve animal welfare.”

The formal concept design will feature a range of elements to help assist to increase better animal welfare outcomes, including:

• Soft-fall matting;
• Holding pen reconfigurations;
• Cattle yard roofing;
• Sprinkler systems; and
• Rainwater harvesting.

Saleyards Strategy Committee Member and Councillor Barry Kuhl described the once in a generation project as “essential” for the region’s farming sector.

“Since our previous application, Council has worked diligently to best present this significant project for grant funding. In the 2020/21 financial year, the saleyards grossed more than $157 million in sales, selling 86,000 head of sheep and 65,000 head of cattle so they are a major economic contributor to both the State and Federal economies.” Cr Kuhl said.

Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven reiterated the Malinauskas Labor Government’s support for the project.

“We committed $2.7 million to this important project before last year’s election and we have maintained that commitment." Minister Scriven said.

"This is an important project for our livestock industry and the region more broadly. I commend Grant District Council for progressing this work."

"I will continue to advocate for this to the Federal Government, including when I meet with Minister King in Canberra later this month.”

District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Darryl Whicker said the Saleyards were integral to the prosperity of the Limestone Coast region.

“The District Council of Grant has already secured $2.7 million from the State Government in early 2022 and has committed a further $3 million to see this project through to completion,” he said.

“Council remains committed to the funding process and gives thanks for the State Government’s ongoing support.”

Pictured: Front row (L to R) - Saleyards Strategy Committee Member and Councillor Barry Kuhl, Mayor Kylie Boston and Mossop Construction + Interiors Regional Manager Craig Williamson.
Back row (L to R) – District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Darryl Whicker, Saleyards Manager David Wallis, Combined Agents Chairman Ben Jones, and Growth and Tourism Manager Rebecca Perkin.

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For media enquiries, please contact CEO, Darryl Whicker.