Emerald Saleyards will be given a revamp with a larger spelling area, double-decker dump ramp, all-weather hay shed, and shade structure, thanks to funding from the state government.
Upgrades to Emerald’s saleyards and airport have been funded in Round 4 of the state government's Building our Regions program.
The saleyards will receive $1 million from the program, with the Central Highlands Regional Council to match the funding.
Meanwhile $1.5m of state funding will go to Emerald Airport upgrades, with works including reconstructing the general and eastern aviation apron and the refuelling area, as well as widening the taxiway apron.
State development minister Cameron Dick said both projects would be a boon to the local economy.
“The Emerald Saleyards complex is the Central Highlands’ premier livestock selling centre, yarding up to 100,000 head of prime and store cattle a year and hosting major weaner and feeder sales during winter,” he said.
“Combined sales numbers at Emerald Saleyards have risen nearly 25 per cent since 2010-11, while private sales numbers are up over 500 per cent.
“Over this same time period, total sales revenue, including yard fees, feeding and dipping charges, has grown more than 40 per cent – increased demand that’s created the need for these upgrades."
Central Highlands Regional Council mayor Kerry Hayes said the partnership between state government and council was important.
“The Emerald Saleyards and Emerald Airport General Aviation upgrades unlock growth potential for two important Central Highlands commercial facilities,” he said.
“The Emerald Saleyards are the region’s premier livestock selling centre and the fifth largest in Queensland, with beef cattle making up 70 per cent of our region’s $740 million agricultural industry."