Expressions of interest to replace the Boyanup saleyard are being sought. Image – Bunbury Wellington Economic Alliance.

EXPRESSIONS of interest for alternative livestock selling options for Western Australia’s south-west producers were called today.

The McGowan Government is seeks expressions of interest from parties interested in providing livestock sale services in the state’s south-west, with the existing Boyanup saleyard expected to close in 2022.

The Western Australian Meat Industry Authority released the EOI document to gain preliminary information on potential solutions for a replacement facility. The EOI program will also help determine any assistance interested parties might be seeking from the State Government.

A statement from the office of WA to Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said solutions that include and exclude a lease of the Muchea Livestock Centre will be considered, as some parties have indicated operating both facilities could create efficiencies.

Responses to the EOI will be evaluated, and shortlisted respondents invited to a second and final Request for Detailed Proposal phase.

The EOI document is available through the Tenders WA website (http://www.tenders.wa.gov.au), with proposals closing on September 21, 2018.

Ms MacTiernan said the McGowan Government had made an election commitment to proceed with a replacement for the Boyanup saleyard.

“The McGowan Government is committed to facilitating a replacement by the private or local government sectors, and we are aware of a number of private operators interested in investing in a new facility.

“This EOI process will identify areas in which the Government can assist in the development of a replacement facility, and marks a major step forward in ensuring producers in the South-West continue to have their needs catered for after 2022,” she said.