LIVEWEIGHTS should be displayed at cattle sales throughout Australia, the TFGA has said.
It is calling for the change to be made, bringing Tasmanian cattle sales in line with those of the mainland.
TFGA Meat Council Chairman Brett Hall said producers should be given the option of having their store cattle weighed prior to sale.
Killafaddy, Quoiba and Bridgewater saleyards all have the infrastructure in place to enable this to be immediately implemented, he added.
“Displayed cattle weights at saleyards are a win-win for the whole industry. Vendors are paid for what they produce and buyers know exactly what they are paying for,” said Mr Hall.
“Knowing how much is paid for and received at the saleyard per kilogram allows producers to determine their cost of production. Buyers have an accurate base to calculate the time and feed required to finish the livestock. This information is valuable for improving farm profitability.”
Withholding information disadvantaged Tasmanian meat producers he added.
“Knowing the liveweights of cattle at sale provides a level playing field for both buyers and sellers and would allow for more accurate comparison of market prices.”
