The Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (DRLM) won the inaugural Animal Welfare in Lairages award, which was presented at the Australian Livestock Markets National Saleyards Expo held in late July.
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The award clearly outlines animal welfare is now front and centre of all saleyard activities and is fundamental in the successful operation of saleyards, be it sheep, cattle or goats.
To win, the centre had to demonstrate its commitment to the promotion of best animal welfare practice.
Judging comprised of such elements as staff training and development in best animal procedure, communications with all saleyard users, upgrading of infrastructure and facilities to best promote a safe environment for people and animals to work together in close proximity.
The DRLM has in recent times spent a total of about $11 million on revamping and improving the complex.
Some recent upgrades include the extra use of trees and shade cloth, rubber matting in the cattle section, textured concrete in sheep yards selling pens with water and regular washing of yards after every sale.
These and other initiatives introduced by council and the staff continue to put this complex to the forefront when selling facilities are discussed.
The Australian Lamb Company (ALC) has negotiated a new arrangement with Coles supermarket, as we understand. Many years ago, ALC processed a lot of lambs for the supermarket giant.
Recent times saw JBS Melbourne hold the contract.
ALC have apparently wrestled this outstanding contract back from JBS.
My understanding is it is designed to cover 10 years and that ALC to fulfill itsr part of the agreement will spend some $40 million on its plant at Colac to satisfy increased demand.
Long-time agent in this part of the world Jim Hiscock has taken a position in Albury with Unthank and Co.
Jim had a substantial stint with Lord Dakin as one if its principal auctioneers in Dubbo and in recent years has been one of the mainstays in the AJF Brien and Sons business at Coonamble.
Over the years Jim has accumulated a vast number of friends and industry contacts and will be a valuable asset to his new employers.
Drifting a bit further afield, property prices are apparently soaring in some areas of western Queensland, Northern Territory and, more to the point, Western Australia.
There are many reasons in WA for this explosion in values and includes the aggressive action of people such as Gina Rinehart and many others who have embarked on a strategy of land accumulation.
The Chinese have taken up the challenge along with global and domestic super funds.
