Geelong/Colac Saleyards Transition
- Scott Jardine, Economic Development Officer
- Sep 21, 2017
- 2 min read
The Geelong saleyards closed on 31 August 2017. A transition plan is being actioned to enable the Colac Saleyards to cater for surrounding peri-urban farmers and to assist their transition to Colac.
As part of the Colac Saleyards Transition plan, a working group including the City of Greater Geelong, Colac Otway Shire and Surf Coast Shire have commenced meeting to assist in the transition process.
During the first meeting of the group, it was discussed that:
Recognising the need for rapid action, the first sheep sale was to be held Monday 18th September. Sheep can be dropped off on the preceding Sunday from 3pm to 6pm or sale day from 7am – 9am. Sheep sales will be held fortnightly thereafter.
A Vendor Declaration (NVD) must accompany all sheep being sold.
Colac Saleyards management is confident that sufficient infrastructure is in place for a safe and successful first yarding under this plan.
Some upgrades have already been completed, including improving walkways and lights under shed to allow for easy removal of stock in the evenings.
The installation of an adjustable height ramp is planned, but awaiting suitable weather conditions for construction. Multiple fixed height ramps suitable for loading/unloading trailers are already in place in the interim.
The sale on Monday went ahead as planned. While the yarding was reduced with poor weather preventing 60 head from Apollo Bay being yarded, good prices were ahieved, with fat lambs achieving $128-130. There were a number of buyers including a meatworks from Melbourne and several private bidders.
The undercover facilities and canteen proved popular with many buyers and sellers appreciating the protection from the weather and a hot breakfast.
It is expected that improved weather over the next fortnight will lead to an improved yarding at the 2nd October sale.
For further information regarding the Colac Saleyards Transition Plan, visit
For further information about buying and selling sheep or cattle at the Colac Saleyards, please speak to your stock agent or Graeme Riches, Colac Saleyards Superintendent on 0407 092 195.
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