THE Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange is now an even cooler place to be on hot summer days due to the installation of shade sails across the sheep yards.
It's hoped the cooler conditions will increase sheep sale numbers.
Forbes Shire Council received $85,000 for shading at the saleyards from the NSW Government Local Drought Stimulus Program.
Forbes Shire Council general manager Steve Loane said the sails were an important addition in keeping with providing the highest animal welfare standards for saleyards.
Related reading:
It's yet another animal welfare initiative on the back of past projects which last year resulted in CWLE winning the highly prestigious Animal Welfare in Saleyards and Lairages Award at the National Saleyards Expo.
"This installation is all part of the plan for the extension of the CWLE, with a further $3.4 million spent on expanding the yards to include a multi-species yards under cover early this year," Mr Loane said.
"This area was in need for shade given the extreme heat we experience here on sale days during summer.
"Animal welfare is always front of mind for Council and the shade makes a considerable difference to not only the animals but the people on the ground as well.
"The shade sails will ensure stock are kept in a stable condition, ensuring they are fit for transport and fit for consumption."
The CWLE is a state of the art facility which was purpose built for the selling of quality cattle, sheep and pigs.
"The facility was built in 2005 and is a key economic driver for the Forbes Shire," he said.
Today's sheep and lamb sale is the last for 2020 and markets for 2021 will commence on January 4.
Have you signed up to The Land's free daily newsletter? Register below to make sure you are up to date with everything that's important to NSW agriculture.
