Almost two months have passed since the closure but members of the Rapid Response team, put in place in Young to support affected workers, to date, have not had any contact from former workers who live in Harden and surrounding areas and are now filtering to these towns in the hope of giving them help and support to get through what must be a difficult time.

Wayne Cooper, who is part of the Rapid Response team, was in Harden this week to talk to Council representatives on the issues they face.

“One of the hardships we faced was the computer system, which had all employees details, disappeared around the same time as the closure,” he said.

“We really want to help and support these workers through the services we offer.”

Harden Shire Council general manager Max Kershaw is concerned about those local residents who have been affected by the closure not getting the support they need.

“This sudden closure had a major impact on the region and hasn’t just affected young,” he said.

“We think there are probably around 30 people affected directly with the closure plus there are many businesses such as butchers, stock carriers and primary producers who have also felt the flow on effect.”

Those who were made redundant when the abattoir closed on February 2 are being encouraged to contact the Government Information Centre by calling 6229 7807 or visiting the centre at 22 Lovell St, Young.

“Since the inception of the Government Information Centre it has been identified through interviews with affected workers that they have skills and qualifications in areas such as welders, electricians, aged care carers, truck drivers, cleaners, customer service, plumbers and photographers to name just a few,” Mr Cooper said.

“For most workers they don’t want to re-locate to find employment so through joint efforts we are helping them become qualified in various areas so they can gain employment and continue to live locally and support their local community.

“There are a lot of skills out there and these people have a strong community spirit and a very good work ethic and would be a sad loss to the community if they had to re-locate.”