Double celebrations for newly opened Southern Regional Livestock Exchange
Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Southern Regional Livestock Exchange (SLRE) has this week been nominated as the host venue for the 2012 Australian Livestock Markets Association Conference.
The news comes from this year’s conference at Dubbo where industry representatives from across the country voted on the Southern Highlands as the preferred location for next year’s conference.
“This vote is a ringing endorsement from our peers,” said Chairman of the Southern Regional Livestock Exchange, Councillor Duncan Gair.
“Feedback from the Dubbo summit is that livestock agents from around the country want to inspect first-hand what we’ve achieved here and enjoy our region’s facilities.
“It’s impressive to think that only one week after the roofing enclosure was opened, we’re already starting to see the benefits flow on to the local community,” Councillor Gair added.
The vote to host the 2012 conference comes only days after the official opening of the $4.8 million structure by the Federal Member for Throsby, Stephen Jones MP.
In addition to securing the conference, Council’s Saleyard’s Manager, Andrew Murdoch was also awarded the prestigious Livestock Industry Marketing Award.
Wingecarribee Shire Mayor, Councillor Ken Halstead said both nominations were a coup for the region.
“This conference is a major agricultural summit with more than 120 participants expected to attend. It’s also estimated that the conference will bring in some $150,000 in trade for local businesses.
“Whilst the major conference will be held at the saleyards, we’ll also be showcasing many of our other regional hospitality and tourism venues to prospective clients,” the Mayor said.
“Andrew’s award is also due recognition from his peers of the outstanding work he and the rest of the Council team have undertaken over the last twelve months to ensure the roofing enclosure was successfully delivered,” Councillor Halstead added.
The 2012 Australian Livestock Markets Association Conference will be held over two days in July.
“These awards are confirmation that the installation of the roof over the Southern Regional Livestock Exchange has transformed our facility into a nationally recognised cattle saleyard.”
The Southern Regional Livestock Exchange is located at 550 Berrima Road, Moss Vale.