Export beef abattoir now a step closer

PLANS for a $100 million-plus beef cattle abattoir and feedlot at Hughenden have progressed with the signing of a development deed between China’s CNVM Investments and Flinders Shire Council.

The deed, which sets out a path for construction to begin late 2020, was signed by the parties at Hughenden on Saturday overseen by Chinese consulate officials and representatives of the Australian Trade Commission.

Mayor Jane Mcnamara said the signed agreement was a big step towards realising a project which could see carcasses cut into portions and snap frozen for export from the Port of Townsville to China.

The processing facility would handle between 800 and 1500 head per day and create about 200 jobs, while the feedlot would handle

50,000 head of cattle.

“This is a great outcome for residents of the Flinders Shire and the state of Queensland,” Cr Mcnamara said. “This project will stimulate further investment and create muchneeded jobs in Hughenden and Northern Queensland.”

“This is an exemplary example of what small councils can achieve when they work as a team to create positive outcomes for their community.”

The council is partnering with the company by providing 900ha of land on the western edge of the town and committing to provide water, power and road access.

The council said the deed aimed to advance the development so a detailed design could be made and applications lodged for state approvals.

CNVM Investments representative Miao Wang said it about was a very exciting project, not only for CNVM and their partners along the supply chain to China but also for further developing good working relationships between Australia and China.

“We at CNVM are very committed to the Hughenden processing facility and feedlot and are looking to complete the approvals and development process as quickly and effectively as possible, and to bringing this project to life for Australia and China,” Ms Wang said.

Flinders Shire CEO Daryl Buckingham said the project was further proof of Hughenden’s premium position for transport options and its proximity to the Port of Townsville.

“This project will inject much-needed infrastructure and market opportunities for the beef industry of North Queensland,” he said.