THE Mount Gambier and District Saleyards grossed more than $122m in sales across the 2019/20 financial year, according to new figures released by Grant District Council.
Close to 80,000 head of cattle and 110,000 sheep were sold across the 12-month period, with 164 sales held at the facility.
Over $17m worth of stock passed through the facility during March, with the March store sale values doubled to $5m – a record for the yards.
Council deputy chief executive Jane Fetherstonhaugh said it was a good outcome for the agricultural sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Glenburnie facility retaining its reputation as a premier livestock selling centre throughout.
“Staff and stock agents have spent a significant amount of time in modifying practices and standards to not only meet but exceed the COVID-19 safety recommendations so the saleyards can continue to run responsibly and effectively during the pandemic,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.
“We are very encouraged with the sales results as it indicates industry confidence and trust in the facility and its staff.”
Stock agent chair Sam O’Connor applauded the excellent results, stating they were a testament to the hard-working saleyards team and dedicated selling agents who go above and beyond to make the saleyards a leading selling centre for the Green Triangle.
“With saleyard prices remaining at historically high levels, numbers have remained strong in recent times which provides confidence in this industry well into the future,” Mr O’Connor said.
“Although overall numbers were
slightly down for 2020 this was made up in stock value, with an increase of nearly $13m on last year’s figures and the average price per head of cattle increasing to $1304, up from $1095 last financial year.”
The Mount Gambier and District Saleyards stock sale is held weekly on Wednesday and starts at 9am during winter.
Store sales are held on the second Friday of each month from 10am.
