WELLINGTON Shire Council has renewed its commitment to managing the Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange into the future.
At a recent meeting, council decided to continue to directly manage and operate the livestock exchange to support local employment and provide an essential service for the local agricultural sector which is vital to the Wellington economy.
Wellington Shire mayor Alan Hall said the livestock exchange had experienced some tough times, with farmers affected by crippling drought and now new challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Despite these challenges, we are optimistic about the future of GRLE and Council’s support of this facility is vital for the future of our agricultural sector,” he said.
“Council staff have worked hard to partner with the local stock agents to continue to operate GRLE during these tough times and we look forward to this positive working relationship to continue into the future.”
Sale Stock Agents Association president Ben Greenwood said COVID-19 restrictions had been challenging for agents.
“The agents have combined well with GRLE staff to manage the strict COVID-19 regulations to adapt to new selling methods,” he said.
“Agents are looking forward to sales through the spring, rebuilding herd numbers and enjoying more favourable climatic conditions.”
