A proposal to build a state of the art, small stock abattoir just outside of Bourke has received strong support from the town’s Federal representative.
Speaking in the Federal Parliament in Canberra on Tuesday evening, Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton conveyed his strong support for the abattoir proposal.
Mr Coulton has been in regular contact with Bourke Shire Council over recent months in an effort to assist with making this proposal a reality for Western New South Wales.
“I have had numerous conversations over the past few months with Bourke Shire Council’s General Manager, Ross Earl as well as other Councillors about their planning with CAPRA Developments Pty Ltd to assist with facilitating and expediting this project,” Mr Coulton said.
“Council informed me that CAPRA Developments Pty Ltd has secured suitable land for the construction of the abattoir about 16 kilometres north of Bourke.
“I understand that Council is working with CAPRA Developments Pty Ltd in relation to the infrastructure requirements to enable the project to proceed as expeditiously as possible.”
In order to secure funding for the necessary infrastructure for this project, Bourke Shire Council has submitted an application under round 2 of the Commonwealth Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund (NSRF).
Recognising the extensive economic and social benefits this project will bring to the Bourke region, Mr Coulton provided a letter to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Hon Warren Truss MP supporting Council’s application under the NSRF.
“This project is not only expected to produce substantial economic gains for the community and primary producers across the Bourke region but there should also be a significant number of employment opportunities created including an estimated 200 full time equivalent positions,” Mr Coulton said.
“This is a very worthwhile project and it has my complete and full support.
“I call upon all organisations and residents throughout the Bourke region to pledge their support for this project which will benefit their town as well as the greater Western New South Wales region.”
