A SOUTH WEST MP believes the time is right to build a new saleyard complex in the region as demand for red meat grows.
Barry House has been a member for the South West for 27 years and said recent positives in the industry were driving the need for a modern facility in the area.
“There has been added impetus from recent positive developments within the industry, with the Walsh-Grand Farm partnership and Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest’s entry into Harvey Beef,” Mr House said.
“This is the best news the industry has had in decades. It will lead to increased production in the South West and consequently more demand for saleyards.”
Mr House said the Boyanup saleyard complex was near the end of its life and options for South West producers were limited.
Capel Shire president Murray Scott said the current yards do not have a place in the townsite, as part of the Boyanup townsite strategy.
“The saleyards are right in the middle of town and need to shift,” Mr Scott said.
“We have been trying to get the minister for agriculture and food on board but have had no luck.”
Cattle agents Elders and Landmark exclusively lease and manage the yards under the title of the WA Livestock Salesmen's Association with the lease renewed in 2012 and due to expire in 2022.
Mr Scott said about 68,000 head of stock went through the yards last financial year, with no signs of numbers decreasing.
South West cattle producer and butcher shop owner Kevin Armstrong spends most days at saleyards buying and selling cattle and said Boyanup was not adequate.
“We need to put a bomb under it,” Mr Armstrong said.
“They keep putting money into it, and it’s a waste. It’s past its use-by date.”
He said Mount Barker and Muchea were the next options but were too far away.
Mr Armstrong suggested a new saleyard could be located in Capel as has been suggested previously, or near Brunswick.
