Behind the push to open a second abattoir in Cootamundra is local farmer David Booth of Buronga Organics. 

The idea of a new meatworks was born when the changeover from GM Scott to Manildra Meat Company spelled the end of service kills in Cootamundra. 

A Tier Two export licence literally opened up a world of opportunity for Manildra and in the process they determined that they would phase out service kills taking ownership over what is processed in their Temora Street plant. 

This decision, once in place, will have an effect on a number of butchers and producers who used the meatworks.

As such a consortium of businesspeople, including Mr Booth who has used Manildra to kill his lambs and goats, is keen to fill the gap. 

Initially he enquired about opening a small abattoir on his property, however this was not allowable under Council’s LEP (Local Environment Plan) due to the zoning of the area. 

He has since, in conjunction with Council staff, settled on a location in Turners Lane, zoned industrial. 

“We will be a small multi-species abattoir,” Mr Booth said. 

It is anticipated the new abattoir will have the capacity to process lamb, cattle, mutton and goats. Discussions have also taken place with those in the knackery trade and this line may be worked into the proposal also. 

Already a number of potential investors have pledged their support including wholesalers in Canberra, butchers and small farm operations.

Presently the hold-up on starting the project is related to funding. Once that has been organised Mr Booth said the meatworks could be up and running in less than a year. 

While the Booths would have a stake in the ownership of the new abattoir, it would be run by a third party. 

With Manildra Meat Company increasing their export output and focussing on that side of the business, Mr Booth said he is of the opinion the two businesses can co-exist. 

“We will focus on small, domestic service kills,” Mr Booth said. 

They will be all about processing only with no packaging or wholesale from the site. 

“We don’t intend to put anything in a box,” Mr Booth said.