The Wagga Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC) has received a council funding boost that will see its cattle and sheep capacity grow by thousands.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The boost is a “great development for the city,” according to Alan Brown, chair of the Wagga District Brand NSW Farmers Association.
”It gives people confidence to send their stock there,” he said.
“What it should do is reduce the stress on the operators and the yards when we get peak periods.
”It will reduce the risk levels and increase the safety of everyone concerned.”
Expansion projects totalling $2.7 million will see capacity spaces grow to accommodate more than 2500 cattle. A new elevated walkway will also be added to promote safety at the LMC.
In addition to this funding, $600,000 was approved at the June council meeting that will see new pens house more than 5000 sheep.
What it should do is reduce the stress on the operators and the yards when we get peak periods.
- Alan Brown
Tim McKean, brand manager for Elders in Wagga, is thrilled for farmers to have “more pens” for their stock.
“It's long due that the upgrades are coming now,” he said.
“It’s absolutely going to be good for the livestock and it it’s good that the council is spending money back on the infrastructure.”
Wagga is renowed as the “largest sheep saleyard in the world,” LMC manager Paul Marin said, and future benefits will be consistent for all those involved in the livestock industry.
“Each year the centre achieves outstanding results,” Mr Martin said.
“The capacity to build on this will ensure positive results will continue for all stakeholders who choose to participate in sales at Wagga.”
The upgrades are part of a strategic plan adopted by council to expand the LMC.
