Livestock agents around Queensland are more than satisfied with the federal government's tighter social distancing protocols in place at saleyards and believe it is critical this is maintained.
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GDL managing director Peter Daniel said he has found the latest protocols are working very well.
"It is essential we adhere to rules set down by the government so we can continue to operate saleyards," Mr Daniel said.
He said initially some of the general public and potential buyers found the rules were harsh when they were introduced some four weeks ago.
"Each week it has gotten easier and everyone is getting used to the restrictions," he said.
"We have to restrict those who attend to a bare minimum and the saleyards is for livestock agents and registered buyers only at Dalby Saleyards."
He said restockers were now placing their orders with their livestock agent or a commission buyer to operate on their behalf.
He said due to the supply and demand factor, the market remained very firm to dearer and Dalby saleyards expected to yard 2555 head this week, which is normal following the Easter break.
Matthew Grayson, George and Fuhrmann, Warwick, said agents and designated registered buyers are working according to the rules at Warwick Saleyards.
Mr Grayson too re-enforced that the rules needed to be obeyed for saleyards to stay operational.
"We have all the control measures in place including recording all attendee details, hand sanitizer and the walkways are measured and marked with tape every 1.5 metres," he said.
"If we see from the catwalk that someone is not standing in the right spot, we pause from selling and ask for them to move."
Mr Grayson said that earlier, all attending the Warwick Saleyards were asked to wear plastic gloves but that no longer applied due to the shortage.
Meanwhile at Roma Saleyards, it is business within the enforced guidelines, according to TopX agent Cyril Close.
Mr Close said restockers were encouraged to come to the sale earlier than starting time and find what they want, then leave an order with their agent to operate on their behalf.
"We are encouraging both buyers and vendors to stay away if possible," Mr Close said.
"We have the 'one post, one buyer', as the posts are positioned further than the 1.5 metre requirement."
He said it was good to have the local police visiting the complex to ensure rules were being obeyed.
"Saleyards provide vital employment to any town whether it is Roma, Warwick, or Biggenden."
Helen Walker
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
