Livestock producers in the North West of the state are to be congratulated for taking the initiative to set up their own independent saleyards after the Government failed to act.
Shadow Primary Industries Minister Shane Broad said the first stock sale held at the new saleyards site in Smithton today was hugely successful and shows the strong demand that exists for such a facility.
“The Liberals stand totally exposed after turning their backs on the North West livestock industry following the closure of the historic Quoiba saleyards near Devonport in June.
“Since then North West producers have had to transport their stock to Powranna south of Launceston to get their animals to market.
“It just doesn’t make sense, transporting animals more than two hours south only for them to be transported back after sale to go into butcheries on the North West Coast,” Dr Broad said.
“There was strong competition and good prices for more than 500 head of cattle that went under the hammer in Smithton today, far more than we saw at Powranna last week.
“This is only a first step, but it sends a very strong message to the Government about the need for a permanent saleyards to service the North West Coast.
“Hopefully this will provide the impetus for saleyards to be set up further along the coast, closer to the major centres of Devonport and Burnie, so the North West can be guaranteed of receiving the service it needs.”
Shane Broad MP
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries
