The Central West Livestock Exchange has been awarded the Australian Livestock Markets Association Animal Welfare Award.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Livestock Exchange was recognised at ALMA's National Saleyards Expo in Roma, Queensland for its commitment to the welfare of all animals that pass through its facility.
From the flooring to the rails, the new saleyards were designed to ensure the welfare of the many thousands of sheep, cattle and pigs sold there.
But it hasn't stopped there: a new designated run for the working dogs who spend hours there each sale day includes a trough to swim in, trees for shade and dog boxes.
Forbes Shire Council's general manager Steve Loane said the first-of-its-kind project arose from a conversation with transport operators about dogs being contained on trucks for an extended period on sale days.
"We are pleased to be the first to provide a service that not only helps our heavy vehicle transport industry, but our farmers as well," Mr Loane said.
In addition to having the right facilities, Forbes Council's approach to animal welfare is also about ensuring staff have best practice skills and knowledge.
Forbes Shire Council has partnered with Tocal Agricultural College to deliver an Accredited Livestock Carer training program to all council staff employed at the livestock exchange.
The council has also developed and implemented an induction that aims to educate and promote responsibilities for all users of the facility.
"I'm very proud of our council winning this award, but even prouder of the wonderful staff and facility we have at the Central West Livestock Exchange," Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller said.
"The livestock exchange serves an important role for our farming community and we will continue to upgrade and maintain this amazing infrastructure."
The Central West Livestock Exchange last year saw throughput of 105,000 cattle and 1,466,900 sheep.
The council is currently expanding the cattle yards with another covered area, eliminating the potential for overcrowding and optimising livestock flow through the yards.
ALSO MAKING NEWS:
