JBS Australia will invest in its meatworks and sewage plant in an agreement with TasWater

After years of being put on “pong alert” a historic Tassie town could soon be stench free, with the owners of a local abattoir signing a multimillion-dollar deal to improve conditions. DETAILS >>

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AFTER years of being put on “pong alert” the Tasmanian town of Longford could soon be able to enjoy summer stench free with the owners of the local abattoir signing a deal with TasWater to invest millions to improve conditions.

Over many years, residents have complained about the smell, the Northern Midlands Council, has appealed to the Environment Protection Authority for something to be done and the local paper has printed a “pong alert” to rate how bad it is – particularly in summer.

Industry Longford Meat Company

But JBS Australia, which runs the meatworks at the northern entrance to the town, announced it had reached a sustainable long-term solution with TasWater and the state government to address the odour issues associated with the operation and the Longford Municipal Wastewater Treatment System.

Under the new Trade Waste Agreement, signed at the end of October, JBS will contribute $3.1 million to support the upgrade of the TasWater Longford STP.

It will also invest $3.8 million into the meatworks, installing new equipment to reduce odours and improve waste disposal.

JBS is expected to complete and commission the on-site upgrades by April with TasWater upgrades expected to be commissioned in September next year.

Northern Midlands Council Mayor Mary Knowles said the stench had been a huge issue for her community, especially on hot days, and it was wonderful all the lobbying had paid off.

“To have this being dealt with is great news. The meatworks employ a lot of people and are a great part of the community but it was important we had these issues mitigated,” she said.

“We want tourists to enjoy their visit to Longford and for our residents to love where they live.”

Marlborough St, Longford.

JBS Southern’s Chief Operating Officer Sam McConnell said the investment would ensure the company could continue its successful meat operations while addressing the important long-term compliance issues we, and the TasWater facility, have faced in the pas.

“JBS Longford plays a critical role in the community through major investment and jobs and

we’re pleased to continue our support of TasWater and their upgrades, ensuring we deliver

improved environmental outcomes.” Mr McConnell said.

Plant Manager Vernon Piwari said the meat company had been working with TasWater to develop a solution since November last year.

JBS Longford employs more than 300 people and is Tasmania’s largest export meat processing facility.