CATTLE and sheep sales across Armidale and Guyra have entered a new era, with a $10 million upgrade transforming the region’s saleyards into modern, efficient and sustainable selling centres.

The Armidale and Guyra Saleyards redevelopment received $9.78 million from the Commonwealth and NSW Governments, with the project modernising the ageing selling centres, and improving operational efficiency, safety for users and onsite sustainability.

Funding was made possible through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, delivered under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland said the completion of the project represents a major step forward for the region’s third-largest industry.

“Agriculture is a cornerstone of our local economy and these upgrades ensure our saleyards are fit-for-purpose, future-ready and supportive of our producers, agents and transport operators,” Cr Coupland said.

“This investment will help drive economic growth, improve safety and support sustainable practices across the sector.”

Guyra Saleyards co-ordinator and director of APL Guyra and Armidale, Sam Sewell, said the upgrades have received some very positive feedback from producers.

“It’s great to see producers again wanting to come along on sale days to see their lambs sold, catch up with fellow producers and just experience the atmosphere that has been created by the upgraded establishments,” Mr Sewell said.

“These upgrades firmly position the Armidale region as a key hub in Australia’s livestock industry, laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and innovation in agricultural trade for years to come.”

At Armidale Saleyards, sustainability has been a key focus, with the installation of a solar energy system, a wastewater reuse network and a new water tank, all designed to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

Additional improvements include the construction of bull pens, a dedicated sales platform, new administration and canteen buildings and expanded parking, which all make the facility more accessible and user-friendly.

Guyra Saleyards has also undergone significant redevelopment. The sheep selling yards have been completely replaced, cattle yards relocated and upgraded watering systems installed. Road improvements, fencing upgrades and the completion of an effluent pond round out the works.

Together, these modernised facilities enhance livestock care, improve safety for users and streamline business operations – attracting more buyers and sellers and stimulating the local economy.

The Armidale and Guyra Livestock selling centres are owned and operated by Armidale Regional Council.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the redevelopment of Armidale and Guyra Saleyards will provide a boost to the local economy and help keep the busy saleyards running more efficiently.

“By partnering on funding, the Albanese and Minns Governments are helping ensure the Armidale region can continue to grow its agricultural economy and recover from the impacts of past floods and other disruptions,” she said.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said modernising the saleyards at Armidale and Guyra is delivering long-term benefits for producers, buyers and the wider community.

“Annually, around 40,000 cattle go through the Armidale Saleyards, while 130,000 sheep are sold at Guyra, highlighting the importance of these facilities to our livestock sector,” she said.

“By delivering this infrastructure we’re not only improving day-to-day operations with better efficiency and sustainability but strengthening the backbone of local economies and securing the future of our livestock trade.

“These upgrades reflect our commitment to regional development and animal welfare and will make a real difference for everyone who relies on these facilities.”

Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin said saleyards are important to local economies and the agricultural industry that plays such a key part of regional and rural communities.

“We are committed to building back better and supporting communities in disaster recovery,” she said.

“It is a great example of the three levels of government working effectively together on community resilience and economic development in our regions.”