Grants help stock trucks come clean

Thomas George.

NSW Lismore MP Thomas George is urging councils to apply for funding as part of the Fixing Country Truck Washes program which targets key livestock routes and effluent ‘hotspots’ where wash-out facilities are inadequate.
Mr George said the program, which is jointly by the Federal and State governments, is now open to councils across the state and they are encouraged to apply.
“Right now there are gaps in the livestock truck wash-out network which prevent stock crates from being cleaned out between loads, forcing trucks to travel to alternate wash out locations,” Mr George said.
“Upgrading and establishing new wash-out facilities will improve productivity and reduce effluent spills which cause road safety issues and the spread of weed and disease, which supports employment and the economy.
“Industry has been busy identifying effluent hotspots and I look forward to working with councils to see new and upgraded wash-out facilities established.”
Councils have nearly two months to apply for funding under this initiative, which will be vital to providing the infrastructure required to increase productivity in the meat and livestock industry.
As part of the Fixing Country Truck Washes initiative, councils will be encouraged to work with the meat and livestock industry so that the available funding can be leveraged and spread across regional New South Wales.
To apply for Fixing Country Truck Washes initiative, please download an application form by heading to www.freight.transport.nsw.gov.au