Scramble to use pipeline

FREE range egg producers are leading the charge as Golden Plains’ new $11.7 million pipeline drives investment in the region.

The agricultural sector has taken up 75 megalitres of water, since the first stage of the 18km pipeline in the food production precinct was completed in mid-2016.

The pipeline has enabled existing operations to expand and also encouraged new businesses to set up in the precinct, with two free range egg ventures gaining approval.

The Macpherson family is up and running, finishing construction of two large sheds last month which now house about 40,000 chickens.

Farming about 240ha near Lethbridge, the Macphersons have diversified from wool and fat lamb production into free range eggs.

“We’re proud to be among the first to connect to the new water pipeline and help create jobs in the region,” John Macpherson said. “Up to 15 tradespeople have been working on site during construction.”

Golden Plains Shire mayor Des Phelan welcomed the increase in investment. “The precinct is unique in that it has been established specifically to encourage investment in intensive agriculture,” he said.

“It has all the infrastructure required to help the sector flourish — access to water, power, roads and an abundance of suitable land.”

Barwon Water has committed $3.44 million for additional infrastructure as demand rises.