Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (DRLM) continues to lead the way in biosecurity efficiencies, with the unveiling of its brand new truck wash facility. The truck wash facility allows for more weed and disease control, increased road safety, safer work environment and reduced driver fatigue. The DRLM is an integral link between producers, with a contribution of $75.6 million in total output, and supporting 320 full time equivalent positions.
Mayor of the Dubbo Region, Councillor Ben Shields, says the four-bay facility will improve biosecurity by allowing truck drivers to wash their carriers between sales, reducing the risk of trucks carrying diseases like footrot.
“The new truck wash has enough says to allow multiple trucks to pass through in a timely manner, so they can get back on the road. Diseases like footrot can have a devastating effect on our agricultural industry, and with the DRLM contributing more than $75 million to the agricultural industry, our producers can rest easy knowing that we have some of the best biosecurity measures in the country,” Councillor Shields said.
The $1.6 million project is jointly funded by Restart NSW and Dubbo Regional Council (DRC), with DRC contributing $780,000 for the overall project, which has new pumps to allow for a better and more constant water supply, a slope to allow faster drainage of truck carriers, screens between wash bays, and energy efficient lighting.
“This new facility means that drivers will be able to wash their trucks in a safe and efficient manner with a bay long enough to accommodate the largest of trucks, including b-triples and road trains,” Councillor Shields said.
Restart NSW provides funding and enables the delivery of high-priority infrastructure projects that improve the state’s economic growth and productivity. Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders, says that 30% of Restart NSW funding is targeted at regional areas, and the DRLM funding is vital to improve biosecurity.
“The community’s bio-security is more protected with improved water pressure and new strainers constructed to improve waste management. With an energy supply upgrade and decreased operating costs through increased efficiencies, the truck wash also has a reduced impact on the environment,” Mr Saunders said.
The truck wash is now operational and ready for use at the DRLM, located on the left-hand side of the premises upon entry to the sale yards.
Source: DRC