Ribbon cut on saleyards upgrade

Above l to r: Sam Sewell, Cr Eli Imad, unknown, Cr Todd Redwood, unknown, Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty. Cr Susan McMichael, Cr Rob Taber and Member for Northern tablelands Brendan Moylan
11th Nov 2025

The $10 million upgrade to the Guyra and Armidale Saleyards is now complete, with Armidale Regional Council (ARC) Mayor Sam Coupland saying it represents a significant step forward for the region’s agricultural infrastructure and economic future.
Last week the upgrade work was officially unveiled with Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty inspecting the facility, before joining Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan, New England Livestock Agents and ARC councillors to cut the ribbon on the upgraded facility.
Coordinator of the Guyra Saleyards and Director of APL Guyra/Armidale Sam Sewell said the upgrades have received some very positive feedback from producers so far.
“It’s great to see producers again wanting to come along on sale days to see their lambs sold, catch up with fellow producers and just experience the atmosphere that has been created by the upgraded establishments.
“These upgrades firmly position the Armidale region as a key hub in Australia’s livestock industry, laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and innovation in agricultural trade for years to come”
Funded through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and jointly supported by the Australian and NSW Governments, the project has delivered transformative improvements that enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of both facilities.
The Guyra Saleyards now feature modern steel sheep yards replacing the old timber infrastructure, upgraded stock watering systems, improved road access including ring road upgrades, and a relocated cattle yard to improve site functionality. The site also includes a completed effluent pond and fencing, incorporating the innovative ‘Weeping Wall’ system.
At the Armidale Saleyards, the upgrades include a new solar system to support sustainability goals, a wastewater reuse network with improved washdown water management, and the construction of bull pens, a sales platform, and new water tanks. The site also boasts a new office, amenities, and canteen facilities, along with improved vehicle parking and landscaping around the Administration Building.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said that modernising the saleyards at Armidale and Guyra is delivering long-term benefits for producers, buyers and the wider community.
“Annually, around 40,000 cattle go through the Armidale Saleyards, while 130,000 sheep are sold at Guyra, highlighting the importance of these facilities to our livestock sector.
“By delivering this infrastructure we’re not only improving day-to-day operations with better efficiency and sustainability but strengthening the backbone of local economies and securing the future of our livestock trade.”