People power drives saleyards campaign

People power is seeking to save the Warragul saleyards with a new campaign.

Farmers, businesses associated with farming, other local businesses and community supporters are urged to jump on board.

The campaign by local farmers and affected industry representatives, with support of the Warragul Business Group, is urging the Victorian Livestock Exchange (VLE) to extend the life of the Warragul saleyards.

The VLE announced in September that it would close the Warragul saleyards, with all cattle sales transferred to its Pakenham facility until a new regional facility at Bunyip North is developed.

VLE has since conceded to the requests of agents to continue calf and dairy sales at Warragul until March 2021.

But the Wednesday fat cattle sales and Thursday cow and bull sales remain closed.

Trafalgar dairy farmer Jim Arbrecht urged the entire farming community to rally, demonstrate weight in numbers and save the saleyards.

“Get behind your Warragul saleyards,” he said. “We need your support.”

He said before Christmas everybody accepted the sales would shut. Now it’s time to rally before it’s too late.

Mr Arbrecht said less sales would impact farmers, businesses and money spent in the town.

To show your support and rally behind the effort to save the Warragul saleyards, email savethewarragulsaleyards@gmail.com or send the form published in today’s Gazette to PO Box 867, Warragul 3820.