Echuca & District Livestock Exchange will transition from holding fortnightly to weekly sales in 2025. The change is a significant development for the local agricultural community, aiming to enhance market efficiency and better meet the needs of livestock producers and buyers.
The Echuca & District Livestock Exchange, owned and operated by Campaspe Shire Council, is a pivotal hub for livestock trading in the region. Traditionally, the exchange has held prime cattle sales every fortnight, attracting an average yarding of around 1,000 head per sale. However, in 2024 this has jumped to nearly 1600 cattle per sale with multiple at-capacity yardings. The Echuca stock agents are now drawing cattle from a larger geographical base, which is attracting a growing buyer group and achieving competitive prices for vendors.
The total throughput of nearly 50,000 cattle a year at Echuca & District Livestock Exchange has it among the top 10 saleyards in the state by volume.
Council's Director Sustainability Michael Sharp said it was hoped that the move to weekly sales would increase the frequency of transactions, providing more regular opportunities for producers to sell their livestock and for buyers to source cattle.
"The change marks a positive step towards a more dynamic and responsive livestock market, and underscores Echuca & District Livestock Exchange's commitment to supporting the agricultural community and adapting to the evolving needs of the industry," Mr Sharp said.
The first weekly sale will be on Wednesday, 15 January 2025.
