VENDORS and buyers are being urged to check with their local saleyards before attending weekly markets this week.
Some saleyard operations have banned all but essential staff at selling centres for the foreseeable future.
In a statement yesterday, Regional Livestock Exchange (RLX) said it would move to Stage 1 restrictions as of Monday, June 28 and will remain in place until further notice.
RLX operates NSW saleyards at Inverell, Tamworth, Carcoar, and Singleton.
"It is our priority to ensure your safety and the safety of our staff, operating agents, vendors, buyers and transporters," the RLX statement said.
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This means masks are mandatory in all indoor areas and access to sites will be allowed for essential saleyard staff; essential agency staff and accredited agents; professional buyers or buyers who have been approved by an operating agent at the facility, and livestock transporters.
Access will not be granted for media, vendors or the general public.
At Central West Livestock Exchange, Forbes, masks must be worn while attending any CWLE sales until further notice.
A CWLE statement said QR code's were also to be used when entering the CWLE and visitors are asked to sign out of the venue when leaving.
Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets have followed a similar strategy to CWLE in asking all visitors to wear a mask.
The DRLM statement said the exception were auctioneers who may remove their masks for selling only.
DRLM also requested visitors maintain social distancing of 1.5 metre and only enter the DRLM office and agent's office if necessary.
It reminded visitors of the signage regarding limit on numbers allowed in each office.
"All visitors must sign in upon entry to the facility. QR code's are posted around the facility or manual sign in is available near the canteen/amenities block," the DRLM statement said.
"Livestock sales are considered an outdoor event and as such we are required to adhere to the current regulations. This will be in place until July 9 and is subject to change as per NSW Health advice and NSW Government regulations."
Meanwhile, Neil Townsend of the Wingecarribee Shire Council said the Southern Regional Livestock Exchange at Moss Vale was also restricting access to agents, their employees and contractors, registered buyers, Meat and Livestock Australia staff, transporters and Wingecarribee Shire Council staff.
Mr Townsend said the four square metre rule will apply and masks must be worn.
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