Baiada opens new Tamworth poultry processing plant
The new facility can process 1.5 million chickens weekly, with a future processing line set to increase approved capacity to 3 million birds.
AUSTRALIA – Australia’s poultry producer Baiada has opened its new Tamworth Processing Plant, marking one of the nation’s largest regional food manufacturing investments.
The large-scale integrated facility combines new processing technology, sustainability initiatives and modern employee amenities, with the company saying the development is designed to improve quality and efficiency while strengthening domestic food production.
The plant currently processes about 1.5 million chickens per week, with capacity of up to 15,000 birds per hour. An additional processing line is planned, taking the site to an approved capacity of 3 million birds per week.
The opening comes as demand for poultry products grows and Baiada expands production and processing capacity for brands including Steggles and Lilydale Free Range.
The investment also marks 60 years of Baiada operations in the Tamworth region. Founder Celestino “Charlie” Baiada established the company’s first Tamworth operations in 1966.
Baiada Poultry managing director Simon Camilleri said the development demonstrated the company’s long-term commitment to the region.
“This is a long-term investment in Tamworth and the people who have supported Baiada for generations and the facility reflects our confidence in the future of Tamworth,” Camilleri said.
“We have grown alongside this community for six decades. This facility is about ensuring Tamworth remains at the heart of our operations for decades to come, creating opportunities for local families and supporting the broader regional economy.”
Baiada said Tamworth’s location, established poultry industry, infrastructure and skilled workforce were key factors behind the expansion.
The new employee facilities include a cafe, gym, landscaped courtyard, breakout areas and administration spaces, alongside the plant’s processing infrastructure.
“Technology is an important part of this facility, but it’s the people behind that technology who make our business successful,” Camilleri said.
“We wanted to create a workplace that our employees are proud to come to every day. That’s why we invested not only in world-class processing technology, but also in the amenities and facilities that support our people, their wellbeing and their experience at work.”
Baiada said the Tamworth Processing Plant forms part of its broader investment in processing capacity as it prepares for continued growth in Australian poultry consumption and demand for its chicken products.
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