Livestock SA has welcomed the recent announcement from Thomas Foods International of a new multi-million-dollar abattoir at Murray Bridge.

Livestock SA president Joe Keynes welcomed the announcement for the state’s livestock industry.

“It is great news for livestock producers across South Australia,” he said.

“When the plant burnt down it was a devastating blow to the industry, so to have TFI reaffirm it remains committed to SA is an enormous advantage for SA livestock producers.

“Having TFI invest in a new plant will provide surety, particularly as many producers look to rebuild numbers after drought and difficult times.

“It’s also in a location which is very well positioned to service the whole of the state.”

The announcement aligns with key project outcomes for the SA Sheep Industry and SA Beef Industry Blueprints, which have a major focus on increasing consistency of supply of premium products based on key credentials including product integrity, animal welfare, natural resource stewardship, product quality and nutritional value.

Since the launch of the Sheep Blueprint in mid-2016, the industry has exceeded its overarching aim of delivering a 20 per cent increase in productivity and value by 2020.

The Beef Blueprint was launched in mid-2018 and is also on track to deliver on its key aims.

“The Blueprints have been developed to ensure the sheep, wool and beef industries remain major economic contributors to the state’s economy,” Mr Keynes said.

“The new plant will help to build upon the significant success already achieved by Blueprint aims and projects.

“Having a state-of-the-art processing facility will provide benefits to the entire supply chain and help industry to capitalise on new data recording and technology platforms both on-farm and through the value chain for enhanced decision making and management.

“It will also ensure production efficiencies and benefits to animal welfare.

“To be able to have access to new technology and feedback which can inform producers on how their animals have performed will also be a huge positive for on-farm decision making.”

The new abattoir will be located eight kilometres from the site of the old abattoir, and will replace the previous facility.