A new and improved livestock exchange in Swan Hill will improve the safety of both humans and animals while supporting the economic future of the Murray River town.
Federal Member for Mallee Anne Webster said the new Swan Hill Livestock Exchange would make sale days more efficient, with a range of upgrades to the old exchange.
"This upgrade will ensure farmers from around the region can effectively showcase and sell their livestock thanks to new cattle yards and selling ring, bull pens and weigh scale, cattle troughs and scale house building," Dr Webster said.
"The new Swan Hill exchange will be a vast improvement on the previous facilities, boasting a new scale deck and sheep laneways, pneumatic gate and a newly refurbished truck wash bay."
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government's $876,150 investment would improve the livelihoods of regional farmers.
"In addition to supporting farmers and jobs in related industries, these upgrades will also improve animal welfare and the safety of staff, agents and handlers while sales are in progress," Mr McCormack said.
"By investing in the agricultural infrastructure that lies at the heart of our regional towns, this project will help grow the regional economy, in addition to supporting seven jobs during construction and two ongoing roles."
Swan Hill Rural City Mayor Ann Young said Swan Hill-based contractors completed more than $1.64 million worth of the work.
"The posts, gates, panels and overhead ties combine to make up a more OH&S-friendly version of the former selling pen layout," Cr Young said.
"The laneways are now narrower, ensuring safety for handlers when moving stock between pens both before and after sales."
The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government invested $876,150 in this project under the National Stronger Regions Fund, which has invested more than $611 million in infrastructure projects across Australia. This initiative focuses on strengthening Australia's regions by improving their productivity, employment and workforce skills of regional Australians, while delivering a lasting economic benefit.
Swan Hill Rural City Council contributed the remaining $1,323,850.
