A proposed $30million abattoir in Gillieston would process up to 18000 head of sheep a week and employ 120 full-time workers.
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The 30000sqm abattoir site, which was originally proposed in 2017 by Meatworks Australia, would be built on a former dairy farm at 630 Lancaster-Mooroopna Rd, Gillieston if approved by Greater Shepparton City Council.
The planning application said the location was selected due to its proximity to NSW, Melbourne Airport, ports and livestock markets.
In the planning application Shepparton Meatworks’ project director Raed Elmasri said the abattoir would provide jobs for the area.
‘‘By introducing a contemporary meat processing facility for the global export of premium Australian lamb, we take a step closer to fulfilling Australia’s role in securing global food demand and keeping Australian jobs in Australia.’’
Expected to run 12 hours a day, six days a week, sheep processed through the the facility would be sourced from Victorian and interstate farms.
The planning permit projects that 27 heavy vehicles would travel in and out of the site each day and a turning lane would need to be added to the east-bound lane of Lancaster-Mooroopna Rd to accommodate increased traffic.
Waste water would be processed at the site, with water to be reused for irrigation throughout the season for fodder production and grazing.
It is estimated between 30ha and 90ha would be irrigated each year, with production expected to be 10tonnes of dry matter each year.
The construction phase is expected to employee more than 100 tradesmen and consultants and take 18 months to complete.
A public information session will be held at the Undera Football Netball Clubrooms on Wednesday, May 29 from 3pm to 5.30pm.
■A summary of the application is available at: engage.vic.gov.au/epa-works-approvals
■Parties wishing to comment on the application, make a submission or object have until 5pm on Wednesday, June 12. Responses can be sent via Greater Shepparton City Council’s website at www.greatershepparton.com.au or posted to Locked Bag 1000, Shepparton, Vic 3632.
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