Baiada Poultry has opened a new processing plant in Tamworth, New South Wales, as part of a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at expanding its food manufacturing and poultry processing capacity.
In a media release, the company said the facility combines automated processing and packaging systems, digital process controls, traceability technology and integrated logistics capabilities.
According to Baiada, the plant can process approximately 1.5 million chickens per week at launch, with an approved capacity of up to three million birds per week if a second processing line is brought into operation. Each of the two processing lines is designed to handle up to 15,000 birds per hour.
The facility also features a three-stage chilling system incorporating immersion chilling, shock chilling and maturation air chilling. Baiada said the combination of immersion and air chilling at this scale is the first of its kind globally.
Baiada Managing Director Simon Camilleri said the investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to Tamworth, where it has operated since 1966.
“This is a long-term investment in Tamworth and the people who have supported Baiada for generations,” 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 was selected for the expansion based on its location, established poultry industry, infrastructure and skilled workforce.
Alongside the manufacturing technology, the new facility includes employee amenities such as a cafeteria, gymnasium, landscaped courtyard, breakout areas and modern administration spaces.
“Technology is an important part of this facility, but it’s the people behind that technology who make our business successful,” Camilleri said.
Baiada said the Tamworth Processing Plant forms part of its broader investment in Australia’s poultry sector and domestic food production capacity, supporting brands including Steggles and Lilydale Free Range.
