By Esther Lauaki
The historic Kyneton Saleyards will be cleaner and safer thanks to an $878,500 state grant.
Macedon Ranges council received the government funding towards the first stage of the $1.757 million Macedon Ranges Livestock Exchange and Truck Park project.
The grant will be used to install a new roof, better loading facilities, and showers for truckies.
Kyneton Livestock Agents Association president Kieran McGrath is looking forward to the development.
“All the agents are very excited with the prospect of a new facility, and when it opens,” Mr McGrath said.
“The saleyards are of major importance for the town.”
Macedon Ranges council expects the project to be complete by the end of 2019 and construction is scheduled to begin in the new year.
The council will match the state contribution of $878,500 to the project.
Works also include solar panels, water harvesting and reuse from the new roof, new fencing and upgrades to loading ramps and walkway rails.
Macedon Ranges chief executive Margot Stork said the project would benefit the local economy as a whole.
“These improvements will help us to ensure its ongoing viability in the long term,” Ms Stork said.
She said the flow-on effect to the economy would generate an estimated 100 jobs.
“The project will not only deliver improved animal welfare standards and conditions
at the saleyards, it will help us to attract
more livestock sellers and buyers,” Ms Stork said.
~ with Bendigo Advertiser
