Push for saleyards cash boost

SEVEN thousand dollars will be given to the operators of the Colac saleyards under a move being considered by the Surf Coast Shire.

It follows the closure of the Geelong Saleyards to the sale of the sheep and cattle on August 31.

At a meeting today Surf Coast Shire will consider providing the Colac Otway Shire with a one-off payment for advertising and operational costs.

Surf Coast Shire says the money will support farmers in the region as the sale of cattle and sheep moves to Colac.

“Supporting the Colac saleyards transition plan would support peri-urban farmers in the Surf Coast and ensure they have an ongoing ability to access a market to buy and sell livestock,” the shire says.

An independent report has identified Colac Saleyards as the most suitable facility for sheep and cattle sales for the G21 Region.

Colac Otway Shire has now asked for financial assistance with costs associated with a rise in sales at the Colac saleyards.

A review of cattle and sheep sales at Colac will be completed by the end of next February.

Meanwhile the Victorian Farmers Federation has been awarded a grant of almost $388,900 to support periurban farmers in maintaining the health of their animals.

The VFF says the grants will help prevent a grey market of cattle and sheep sales.