The Animal Welfare in Saleyards and Lairages Award was presented to the Dubbo facility recently from the Australian Livestock Markets Association.

Western Plains Regional Council city development program leader Ross McCarthy said looking after the welfare of the animals at the saleyards was one of the top priorities, and a combined effort.

“Obviously it’s very important that the animals are well looked after, not only is it the right thing to do but it’s good for the facility. It draws in good producers and the buyers get good quality stock that they know has been well looked after,” Mr McCarthy said.

The judging criteria for the award included staff training and development, animal welfare policy and procedure, communication and implementation of welfare policy, water and feed, processes for unfit stock, and innovation.

Administrator Michael Kneipp said it was an important award to receive, especially now with such a high premium placed on animal welfare.

“There will be some deaths down at the stockyards that’s inevitable but to receive this award says that we’ve got the right practices in place.” Mr Kneipp said.

“Animal welfare is very much a major issue and with Dubbo saleyards last year processing almost half a billion in cattle, sheep and goats, it’s just a vital part of that operation and I’m please to see that acknowledged.”

The facility brings about $75 million to the regional economy and the award would bring more national recognition for a premier saleyards facility, Mr Kneipp said.

Council’s director corporate development Ken Rogers said an important factor that led to DRLM winning the award was employing the right people with the right attitude.

“All the staff at the DRLM have a background of working with animals and genuinely respect animals and their responsibilities in managing animal welfare,” Mr Rogers said.