Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project
Stages 1 and 2
Beefing up our livestock industry
The Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project will deliver strategic enhancements to secure a sustainable future for the saleyards and support the Southern Downs' biggest industry.
The $7.5m project will address animal welfare and workplace health and safety concerns and ensure the region has modernised facilities. Current operations will continue onsite during construction stages.
The improvements will feature 120 selling pens, 35 holding pens, two processing areas, overhead agent catwalks, 5 new loading ramps, cattle troughs and more.
The Warwick Saleyards has connected the Southern Downs’ rural and agricultural community with stock and station agents for more than 60 years.
This drawing remains under final design development and is subject to minor changes.
Project timeline
November 2023: Tender awarded to ICM Constructions QLD
November 2023: Construction works commenced
March 2024: Stage 1 due for completion
May 2024: Stage 2 due for completion
Project highlights
The Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project prioritises animal welfare through targeted improvements to create a stress-free and humane environment for livestock. Improvements include:
- New gravel base in pens: Provides a comfortable and injury-resistant footing for livestock.
- Optimized pen numbers and sizes: Adjusted to accommodate stock densities and promotes healthier conditions.
- Anti-bruise cattle rail: Minimises the risk of injuries during livestock handling.
- New water troughs in pens: Ensures a consistent and accessible water supply for livestock.
- Shade over holding pens: Protects livestock from extreme weather conditions during waiting periods.
- Structural provision for future roofing: Enables future roofing over sale pens for long-term welfare enhancements.
- New loading ramps with anti-bruise components: Prioritises the safety and comfort of animals during loading.
- Modern processing areas with crushes: Streamlines handling procedures for efficient and humane processing.
The project prioritises workplace health and safety through strategic upgrades, fostering a secure saleyards environment. Updated features include:
- Gates, hinges and latches: New gates with robust mechanisms improve livestock containment for safer handling.
- Safer rails for workers: Installation of advanced safety rails minimises risks during livestock handling, maintaining efficient cattle movement.
- Agent catwalks and handrails: Addition of reinforced structures enhances visibility and reduces risks during sales.
- Improved stairs and access: Enhanced worker mobility contributes to a safer working environment.
- Updated operating procedures: Implementation of safety protocols streamlines operations, fostering a culture of awareness.
- LED lighting upgrade: Installation of LED technology improves visibility for a well-lit and secure environment.
- Elimination of confined spaces: Redesigning the weighbridge area eliminates confined spaces for more open and accessible tasks.
- Safety crowding tubs: Introduction of tubs enhances livestock control, minimising stress and ensuring controlled movement.
These measures underscore Council’s commitment to workplace health and safety, creating a secure and efficient saleyards environment.
The Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project prioritises environmental management through the following initiatives:
- Dust suppression: Implementation of effective measures minimises airborne particles, enhancing air quality.
- Site drainage for erosion control: Strategic site drainage minimises erosion, protecting local ecosystems and water sources.
- Reduced earthworks for emission mitigation: Mindful earthwork practices mitigate excess emissions and minimize waste removal, reducing the project's carbon footprint.
- Demolition material re-selling: Re-selling demolition materials to recyclers promotes a circular economy, minimising landfill contributions.
These initiatives reflect Council’s commitment to sustainable and responsible construction practices, ensuring a positive impact on the local environment.
The Warwick Saleyards has connected the Southern Downs’ rural and agricultural community with stock and station agents for more than 60 years. The project brings numerous benefits to the local community and regional economy including:
- Increased stock selling capacity: Expands regional stock selling opportunities, boosting local trade and economic activity.
- Modern and code-compliant design: Upgrades older council facilities to meet current standards, ensuring safety and efficiency in livestock operations.
- Local supplier and trade engagement: 76% of project suppliers and trade are sourced locally, supporting businesses and creating jobs.
- Local engagement of management staff: Engages key site management staff locally, fostering a skilled and sustainable workforce.
- Adopting best practices: Learns from other key saleyards, incorporating best practices for continuous improvement.
These benefits underscore Council’s commitment to boosting the Southern Downs economy and community.
Project updates
Southern Downs Regional Council is delivering the Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project with the financial support of the Federal Government through the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grant Program.
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