Piggery: proposed closure

2 June 2022

The proposed closure of the UQ Gatton campus Piggery will be brought forward, with destocking of the facility to be completed during June 2022 and decommissioning of the facility likely to take several months.

Built in 1970, the facility no longer meets our commitment to the health and safety of our people and the welfare of the animals we care for. 

It had been hoped that refurbishment works could extend the lifespan of the facility for a few more years while a replacement facility was being considered. 

This is no longer an option due to the age of the structure, the recent weather events and the health and safety protocols that apply.

UQ acknowledges the impact this may have on our staff, students and partners, and we are committed to supporting our community and reducing the impacts where possible.

Supporting our staff

Our priority is the small group of dedicated staff who operate the facility and are very committed to the welfare of the pigs in their care. They have made a significant contribution to UQ’s education and research over the years.

Support is being provided to these staff, and we are confident that redeployment opportunities will be available to those staff who wish to stay with UQ.

Welfare of our pigs

The welfare of animals in our care is also a priority. Destocking the piggery started last year and we are continuing to work with our partners to complete the destocking process in the coming weeks. 

Continuity for teaching and research

Teaching and learning

Alternative facilities nearby have been identified and the details of these will be communicated directly to teaching staff and students.

For further information, please email enquire@science.uq.edu.au.

Research

We are working with researchers who use the facility to find alternative options to ensure their research commitments are met.

For further information, please email science.adresearch@uq.edu.au.

Closure plan

The decommissioning plan being developed for the existing piggery will include the safe demolition and removal of the current structure. 

This work is expected to take approximately four to five months and will include decontamination and remediation of the site.

Future plan for a new piggery

UQ is continuing to invest in our Gatton campus. Our intention is to develop a new piggery facility on campus with a commercial partner that will accommodate our research and teaching needs.

For further information, please email gatton.director@uq.edu.au.