Waterloo, near Bunbury, will be investigated as a potential host for a South West agri-food processing precinct, after being identified as the preferred location in a comprehensive planning study.
The South West Food Processing Precinct report assessed six possible sites in the South West region for suitability as an agri-food processing precinct.
The report was commissioned by the Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA), Landcorp and the South West Development Commission (SWDC), and supported by the Department of Planning.
The six sites under consideration included locations at South Burekup, South Gwindinup, Scott River, Manjimup, Waterloo and Yalyalup.
These locations originated from regional strategic planning work undertaken by the Department of Planning.
The comprehensive report recommends a site at Waterloo, near Bunbury, as the preferred location for future agri-industry investment in the south-west region.
DAFWA Regional Director Southern Region Neil Guise encouraged those interested in a strong agri-food processing sector in the region to view the report summary which was now available on DAFWA website [1].
“Agriculture and food is a key industry for the south-west region of the State and being able to add value through processing is critical,” Mr Guise said. “There has been strong interest expressed from the sector for a dedicated precinct in this region.”
SWDC Chief Executive Officer Don Punch said a high proportion of Western Australia’s food processing was already conducted in the region.
“A precinct would offer environmental, logistical and efficiency advantages by having processing companies close to each other,” Mr Punch said.
There are still many steps required to develop an agricultural precinct. DAFWA will work with SWDC and the Department of Planning to determine the technical studies required to facilitate the development of a precinct.
In brief:
- The South West Food Processing Precinct report was prepared by Cardno WA Pty Ltd.
- The report found the Waterloo site, approximately 1500 hectares, is better serviced and aligned with strategic planning objectives than the other sites. The northern part of the site near the South Western Highway has been identified as a likely site for an inter-modal facility that will allow for the transfer of goods from road to rail and provide very good access to Bunbury Port.
- The site is accessible via major established transport, is close to Bunbury and within reasonable commuting distance from other population centres.
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