General News
6 June, 2024
Hay plant works underway
Passing motorists have noticed a hive of activity along Henty Highway with construction well underway at Quality Australian (QA) Hay's plant site.
The plant, about 5km south of Warracknabeal, will offer a new avenue for local farmers looking to export their hay to international markets, with the ability to store 35,000 tonnes of hay and designed to accommodate road trains and shipping containers with a production rate of up to 28 tonnes per hour.
Workmen have been preparing the base layer of asphalt before the first pour of concrete takes place, possibly today.
"There will be two pours of concrete a week," QA Hay general manager Micha Mueller said.
Main road construction which includes widening the road is planned for mid-June.
Part-owner Scott Somers said the company's busiest month would be July.
"The main production shed and main press is planned to be installed in July with the office going up by July or August," he said.
Mr Somers said electrical works would then be carried out and earth works would continue until August.
"A lot happens behind the scenes that no one knows about," Mr Somers said.
"We're 75 per cent on the way and on track."
"It's going to be busy around the site so please drive carefully and be aware of traffic."
The company also is working its way through compliance, maintenance systems and logistics.
"It's all starting to take shape," Mr Mueller said. "Grower interest is really strong."
QA Hay has already signed up 5000 hectares between 38 growers, after the company hosted a growers day in February to gauge interest and support.
"The response was really good and the general feel is really positive," Mr Mueller said, expressing his thanks to the community for supporting ther initiative.
"We're still planning on commissioning next March."
They will be employing around 60 workers in both full-time and casual positions, and the plant will be operating 24 hours a day, five days a week.
To express interest in employment opportunities, email adamin@qahay.com.au
QA Hay will also be present at the upcoming Speed Field Days on July 31 and August 1.