Minister opens new LHPA office in Grafton

The new Grafton office of the North Coast Livestock Health and Pest Authorities (LHPA) was officially opened today by the Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson.

The new purpose-built office in Mulgi Street, South Grafton, offers a one-stop shop for local LHPA ratepayers, where they can access all LHPA services at the one site.

Minister Hodgkinson was joined by LHPA State Management Council chairman Ian Donges, Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis, Mayor of Clarence Valley Council Cr Richie Williamson, LHPA staff, and the community in celebrating the opening of the new office.

During the ceremony, Ian Donges talked briefly about the 150 year history of the organisation, which has developed from the previous Rural Lands Protection Boards to the more recent Livestock Health Authorities.

"Throughout this time the organisation has continued to perform a very important function in safeguarding agriculture in NSW," he said.

"The agricultural industry here on the North Coast has contributed significantly to the economy over the last 150 years, and the LHPA are proud to have supported this by working with rural producers in the areas of livestock health, pest control and stock identification.

"Today’s official opening of the new Grafton office, which will provide better accessibility for people using LHPA’s services, reinforces the organisation’s commitment to servicing its ratepayers and the agricultural community here on the North Coast."

One of the highlights of the official opening was the awarding of Certificates of Appreciation by Minister Hodgkinson to ten North Coast LHPA staff members, some of whom have been with the organisation for ten or more years.

"One of our rangers has worked with the organisation for 25 years, so that’s definitely something to be celebrated," said Mr Donges.

"We congratulate all of those long-serving staff members and recognise their loyalty and dedication to the LHPA. It’s people like them that contribute to the strength of the organisation."

The North Coast LHPA office telephone and fax numbers remain unchanged. For all North Coast LHPA contact details, please visit the North Coast page on the LHPA website at lhpa.org.au.

Media contact: Vanessa Delaney (02) 6391 3787 or 0428 465 378