Laidley Saleyards to cease operations

The Laidley Saleyards will cease operations next year due to the high cost of maintaining a safe and compliant facility.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council voted to close the facility at the August Ordinary Meeting of Council, held today.

Deputy Mayor Chris Wilson said a range of issues impacted the decision.

“We acknowledge this news might be difficult to hear for some of our residents, however when we looked at it objectively, it really was a clear decision.

“Thorough investigations and deliberations were made into environmental, financial and safety considerations.

“We engaged independent external specialists to conduct the investigations, and the total cost of addressing the range of compliance-related matters identified has been estimated at more than $2M.

“The relevant State Government department has been monitoring the site to ensure we are addressing identified issues.

“When we looked at the high projected cost, the relatively low usage of the facility, and the understanding that doing nothing was not an option, this meant the continued use of the saleyards simply was not sustainable, nor was it a responsible use of ratepayer funds.

“We recognise the 50-year operation of the Laidley Saleyards and the impact that its closure may have on local cattle producers, however we have made this decision with the responsible use of limited Council resources, including the potential impact on all ratepayers, at the forefront,” he said.

Council will ensure key stakeholders are kept informed and will assist them with a transition process as the closure progresses.

It is anticipated the cattle dip will be decommissioned in February 2025, with full closure of the facility anticipated by June 2025. Decommissioning and remediation of the saleyards site will occur following the closure.

For more information visit lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au/laidleysaleyards