Wammco gets $5m state loan

Sheep meat producer WAMMCO has received a $5 million loan for upgrades at its Katanning processing plant as part of the state government’s cooperative loan scheme.

The loans scheme has provided more than $90 million in funding since its inception in 2004.

The funds will be used to purchase an x-ray machine and meat meal shaker machines, along with upgrades to the boning room and power supply.

Wammco is one of WA's largest not-for-profit businesses, with 350 staff and $296 million of revenue in the year to June 2017.

Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the loan would ensure the company remained internationally competitive.

“The Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry machine will be a very valuable asset to provide objective measurement feedback about lean meat, bone and fat content of each carcass to Meat and Livestock Australia and producers to improve sheep production, efficiencies and returns,” she said.

“The upgrades to the boning room will include a new vacuum packing machine to increase capacity and exports of high value WA chilled sheep meat.

“WAMMCO is an important part in the state’s livestock industry, which has continued to evolve and respond to the ever changing demands of the global protein market.

“Supporting businesses like WAMMCO means support for jobs and opportunities in our regions.”