Council commits to deeper review of Laidley Saleyards
Lockyer Valley Regional Council has pushed pause on its decision to close the Laidley Saleyards.
At its October Ordinary Meeting, Council voted unanimously to amend the previous decision to allow time for a deeper review into the viability of the site and to explore possible solutions.
In August, Council voted to close the Saleyards by June 2025 due to the high cost of maintaining a safe and compliant facility.
Council’s Mayor, Tanya Milligan said Council listened to the concerns of users of the facility.
“As a Council, we are committed to undertaking a deeper review, as well as involving local producers and industry experts in the process.
“We acknowledge the previous decision caused angst among parts of the community and that our process should have been better, and we’re now moving forward and implementing improvements.
“Though the environmental, financial and safety concerns documented in previous reports remain valid, we have taken onboard community feedback and will take a closer look at the full range of solutions and involve key stakeholders in the process.
“At our Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, Council voted unanimously to formalise a decision to create the Laidley Saleyards Working Group, which will consist of local cattle producers, industry experts, the current sales agent, councillors and relevant staff.
“We already have an EOI process underway to fill the places for local cattle producers and we have held one preliminary meeting of the Working Group with industry experts to help define the scope, priorities and processes, which will be reviewed once we have everyone on board.”
Mayor Milligan said the panel would need to consider a wide range of information and possible solutions and outcomes, and that at this time nothing could be ruled out.
“Closure is not off the table; however, we are very hopeful of a positive outcome for all involved and that is what we are working towards,” she said.
“We are also committed to being transparent with the information being reviewed and encourage those with any interest in the matter to regularly check for project updates on Council’s Engagement Hub and, if necessary, to confirm with members of the Working Group whose names will be published on the Engagement Hub.”
For more information visit lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au/laidleysaleyards