The future of the Euroa saleyards has been sured up thanks to an upgrade that has added a roof and other facilities to improve animal welfare and safety.
Stage one of the Euroa saleyard upgrade was officially opened yesterday and the Strathbogie Shire Victorian Government representatives announced stage two would begin soon.
Stage one, funded by the Strathbogie Shire Council to a cost of $455,000, included partial roofing and improving stock pens.
Agriculture Minister Jaala Poulford said Labor was fulfilling its election commitment to provide $500,000 for stage two of the project, which will support additional work including relocation of power lines, further upgrades to the yards, and finalising roofing.
Visiting the Euroa saleyards, Ms Pulford said the upgrade would support jobs and drive economic growth across the region.
Each of the 14 annual sale days currently generate up to $2 million and employ about 25 local people, generating $77,000 in indirect annual benefits for local businesses.
Strathbogie Shire mayor Deb Swan said the new roof’s design was a three span sawtooth structure which provided natural light, ventilation and sound reduction.
The roof, which was finished ahead of schedule, provides shade and protection from the elements for both cattle and clients, and since it was completed two sales have been held successful under cover.
The roof covers 104 of the 112 existing pens which comprises the main working area of the saleyards.
Stormwater run-off from the roof is collected in a storage tank and re-used to supply water to the troughs.
Cr Swan said the saleyards were an important economic and social fixture of the region.
“Agriculture is by far the largest industry for employment in the Strathbogie Shire,” Cr Swan said.
“So it is only fitting that the Euroa saleyards and their livestock agents should have a modern facility to attract further investment in this area.”
