Saleyards back in business

By Breanna Lloyd

Joint funding from the Australian and state government and the Central Highlands Regional Council has led to more than $3 million in repairs and improvements towards the Emerald Saleyards.

The project supported eight jobs since the commencement date in 2019, and improvements focus on prioritising cattle production and safety and reducing feed losses and truck waiting times.

Central Queensland holding both the largest cattle herd in Australia and the most important livestock exchanges, the government thought it was time for a change.

Twenty new spelling paddocks, new lighting and roofing over the scale house, a new hay storage shed and a second double-decker dump ramp were installed in the area.

Emerald Mayor Kerry Hayes, Central Highlands Regional Council, said why Emerald Saleyards is important to Central Queensland.

“Central Highlands is home to the largest beef cattle population in Australia and the Emerald Saleyards is critical infrastructure in providing a marketplace for the livestock,” he said.

“It is the fourth largest genuine livestock selling center in Queensland and its market signalisation is key for the 2,500 agricultural businesses operating in the LGA.

“These upgrades create a genuine return on investment for the funding parties and underpin intergenerational support for our key rural industry.”

Mr Hayes ensured buyers and sellers the improvements are beneficial and will improve the cattle’s conditions.

“The upgrades provide a secure, safe environment for livestock and those workers that are around them,” he said.

“Producers have access to a range of options including quick unload/reload, spelling, feeding and tick treatments in an all-weather environment.

“This improves animal welfare, limits losses, and improves access to more market options.

“Market options give producers greater flexibility in herd management and pasture control and reliable, connected saleyards with regular sales are integral to a broad range of

benefits to producers.”

Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm said why this project is beneficial to the Emerald community.

“This redevelopment is a game changer for the local economy in Emerald and the wider Central Highlands, improving safety and cattle throughout while boosting yard capacity,” he said.

“Reducing truck wait times and feed losses will have huge benefits for cattle buyers, sellers and agents.”

Queensland Assistant Minister for Local Government Nikki Boyd said why the funding was necessary.

“The Emerald sale yards are a pillar of the community out here in Central Queensland, so it’s fantastic to be here to see this funding producing tangible results,” she said.