Melanie Riley
A COMMITMENT has been made by the City of Mount Gambier to contribute funding for the Mount Gambier and District Saleyards Transformation Project.
The goal of the project is to transform the saleyards into a thriving regional hub.
This will boost supply chains, increase market sales and provide producers with a platform to grow from project launch to ongoing operations.
After a deputation presented by District Council of Grant mayor Kylie Boston at the February City of Mount Gambier council meeting, the recommendation was for council to contribute an amount of $77,000 – the equivalent of 0.55 per cent of the project.
The amount would be contributed over two financial years, subject to approval in the 2024/2025 budget process.
City of Mount Gambier mayor Lynette Martin said after “considerable discussion and debate in the chamber” resulting in a split vote, her casting vote concreted the decision to go ahead and support the project and commit the full recommended amount.
Cr Martin said her decision to support the project was for its great benefits to the Limestone Coast region.
“The saleyards make a significant contribution to the local economy and business community because it is one of the biggest livestock markets in the Limestone Coast area,” she said.
“I know there is discussion about future development at that site that would benefit the Limestone Coast.
“I think it’s important that the councils of the Limestone Coast collaborate, as together we are stronger, and we will build stronger communities.”
Ms Martin spoke of the importance of collaboration and cooperation between councils, outlining the collaboration on multiple projects including District Council of Grant’s contribution to Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre and the City of Mount Gambier’s contribution to fund improve telecommunications for the saleyards and their contribution to the upgrades of the Mount Gambier Airport.
“That does demonstrate our commitment to support major projects that benefit our region,” Ms Martin said.
“I think it’s also a great demonstration of three levels of government working together – local government, state government and federal government.”
The project will include a total investment of $14m, which includes a commitment of $4.3m from the District Council of Grant, and $2.7 from the state government.
The District Council of Grant is currently in the stages of seeking support from the Commonwealth government through the Growing Regions Program.
