A major sheep processing plant in Katanning has been given a $5 million leg up through the McGowan Government's Co-operative Companies Loan Scheme.
The loan will enable the farmer-owned WA Meat Marketing Co-Operative (WAMMCO) to increase its processing potential and efficiency through upgrades to the mutton boning room.
Other upgrades include improvements to the plant's conveyor, compressor and computer systems.
The Katanning plant is the largest employer in the region, with more than 300 staff when operating at full capacity.
More than $102 million in loans have been provided to Western Australian co-operatives for capital purchases since the scheme began in 2005.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Sheep meat is fetching record prices in the market and our government is supporting farmers to capitalise on this market opportunity.
"Investing in sheep processing facilities provides farmers with more options for turn off, and helps our State to meet the growing global demand for premium WA lamb and mutton.
"WAMMCO is the only major producer-owned co-operative of lamb and sheep meat products in Australia and continue to deliver fantastic results for farmer members.
"These upgrades will provide a welcome boost to Katanning's economy and farming community."
