The Wagga Livestock Marketing Centre has lots of claims to fame. It is one of the most significant saleyards in the country. In fact, the sheep and lamb sale is often described as being the largest of it's type in the world.

As a result the centre is known for not only drawing big numbers of sheep and cattle each week but also attracting school visits and tourists who are keen to learn more about the market.

The centre has claimed several prime lamb and yarding records over the years and regularly amasses staggering turnover figures.

On Thursday, during the break between selling the lambs and the sheep, members of the livestock industry gathered in the canteen to celebrate a major milestone.

It is 40 years since the saleyards have been operational at Bomen.

Wagga City Council deputy mayor Dallas Tout said it was an asset that continued to grow and had rightfully earned a place as a leader in Australia.

Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC) manager Paul Martin described the 40 years as an accurate reflection of the camaraderie and workmanship between the selling agents, vendors, transporters and council.

"Let's hope we see another 40 years as successful as the last," he said.

Meanwhile, Wagga Associated Livestock Agents president, Ryan Schiller reminisced about the history of the LMC.

"I was only a kid at the time (when the saleyards moved from Wagga to Bomen)," he said.

"I remember the controversy of shifting out here ... there was quite some debate over it," he said.

However, the site has survived the test of time and received upgrades and investment to modernise the facility.

"The saying you build it and they will come has been proven here," Mr Schiller said.

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