Elders livestock manager Nigel Starick selling lambs at Bendigo.

BENDIGO stock and station agents have welcomed a Coalition election commitment to put $3 million toward a roof for the city’s livestock exchange.

Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud has announced that a Coalition Government will enhance animal welfare standards at Bendigo Livestock Exchange, committing $3 million in funding towards a new roof at the facility.

Bendigo Stock and Station Agents Association vice president Glenn Rea said a roof for the saleyards would be welcomed and has been on the agenda for some time.

Mr Rea said roofing of livestock saleyards was becoming necessary due to animal welfare policies that recommend reduced yardings or even the cancelling of sales when air temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius.

The Bendigo exchange’s major western Victoria sheep sale competitors, saleyards at Hamilton and Ballarat already their sale areas under a roof.

The City of Greater Bendigo chief executive officer Andrew Cooney also welcomed the announcement.

“Given the climate in central Victoria, it is desirable to have shelter for the animals in holding facilities,” Mr Cooney said.

“An investment of this scale also presents an opportunity for added sustainability efforts, such as solar power generation and water harvesting.”

Mr Littleproud said the funding would contribute to providing shelter for sheep and lambs in holding facilities.

“The Bendigo Livestock Exchange (BLE) has a throughput of one million sheep and lambs annually, generating $190 million in livestock sales to the Victorian economy each year.

“It contributes an annual output of $26.5 million, supports 86 jobs and has a value add of $13.7 million to the regional economy,” Mr Littleproud said.

“We all know our farmers have extremely high animal welfare standards, so this commitment is important to the Coalition.”

The Nationals candidate for Bendigo, Andrew Lethlean, said it’s fantastic to be able to support farmers, stock agents and the local council with this commitment of funding.

“This investment supports local jobs, backs producers from across the region, and helps deliver the infrastructure Bendigo deserves,” Mr Lethlean said.

“Bendigo is at the heart of Victoria’s livestock trade and yet it’s the only major saleyard in regional Victoria operating without a roof.

“With better shelter for livestock, improved conditions for workers, and lower long-term operating costs, this is a smart, future-focused project that supports everyone from the paddock to the plate.”

Liberal candidate for Bendigo, Matt Evans, said the funding will help BLE’s long-term sustainability and operations.

“I’ve had strong feedback from the stock agents and broader sector of how important this new shade structure will be,” Mr Evans said.

“This commitment will ensure the long-term viability and success of the facility. It also improves occupational health and safety for all staff, contractors, and visitors.”