Meatworks Australia gets approval to build abattoir in Gillieston

The Meatworks Australia has secured works approval from the Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) to build an abattoir and meat processing facility in Gillieston, Australia.

The new facility will have the capacity to process 3000 sheep a day in a series of enclosed buildings.

EPA executive director Tim Eaton said that approval was given to the company after completing a thorough assessment and taking into account the key findings during a community conference.

Eaton said: “EPA received 16 submissions on the proposal and held a community conference to further discuss these and work through possible solutions and mitigation measures.

“The key environmental issues raised by the public were about potential odour, noise and dust, and health impacts from livestock.

“EPA has determined that with controls and suitable works approval conditions the environmental risk can be acceptably managed.”

Before initiating construction works at the site, Meatworks is required to submit the final designs for the processing building ventilation system, covered overflow holding yards, wastewater treatment systems and storm-water system.

The company also needs to submit a construction environment management plan, which includes management of construction noise and a final acoustic design that is in line with noise regulations.

Additionally, a tree screen planting proposal for the site boundary, holding pens and overflow yards needs to be submitted to the EPA.

If at any point EPA is not satisfied with any element, then it would direct Meatworks to provide additional information or make necessary changes.

Eaton further added: “Once the site is close to commissioning, Meatworks Australia must also develop an ongoing noise and odour monitoring programs and establish a Community Liaison Committee and a community complaints response plan to ensure any ongoing amenity impacts on surrounding residents can be satisfactorily addressed.”