Thursday, 3 December 2020
LINES of dried effluent on the streets of Moree from unwashed stock trucks will now be a distant memory, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall this week joining representatives from Moree Plains Shire Council to officially open the $640,000 new saleyards truck wash.
Mr Marshall said in this calendar year the truck wash had already serviced more than 900 trucks.
“There’s nothing pleasant about coming up behind an unwashed cattle truck on the open road in the middle of summer or experiencing the odd ‘splash’ of effluent down a country town main street,” Mr Marshall said.
“Whether you’re a contractor, casual hauler or livestock owner, this new system will make it much easier to decontaminate trailers between loads, improving cleanliness and efficiency.
“Designed to meet current environmental standards and in consultation with local trucking companies and livestock agents, the project has seen the replacement of the water supply tank, relocating and upgrading sewage pumps and stations, construction of two separate dry beds for solids to be treated.
“Duplicate wash spaces will improve the waste water collection system, making it easier for a broader range of trucks to be able to use the site to improve the welfare of animals, make sure roads are safer, and take care of environmental pollution.
“The addition of lighting at the site will allow the facility to be used at night while pressure pumps have been upgraded and the site has been partially re-fenced.
“This truck wash is a practical step towards reducing bio-security risks while ensuring the clean and efficient supply of trucks to move cattle to and from local markets.”
The State Government provided $560,000 for the project with Council and the Moree Saleyards co-funding the remaining $80,000.
Moree Plains Shire Mayor Katrina Humphries said with Moree’s unique geographic position, an upgrade was necessary to accommodate the demand and limit the spread of noxious weeds and diseases.
“We know that the freight industry contributes more than $60 billion to the NSW economy each year, so we’re powering ahead with projects like this that support a vital part of the freight sector,” Cr Humphries said.
“Truck washes play a key role in protecting NSW biosecurity as they limit the spread of weeds and disease across the state.
“With Moree positioned at the junction of three major state highways, our truck wash is frequently used and important to get right.
“As Moree looks to make the most of the economic benefits of the Inland Rail construction and Special Activation Precinct, we must ensure the highest bio-security standards are maintained.”