Covid-19 has seen our usual stockyard sales shut down.
Where does that leave us?
It would seem as though our current batch of stock agents would fill the void created by Covid-19. This could also be problematic as the stock and station industry seems to be in the same position as the rest of us, not having a lot of information on the next move.
As weaner sales are taking place now, here are a few tips on achieving a satisfactory outcome for you:.
(1)Talk to your agent asap to find a way through the sales process.
(2) Attempt to find out who bought your weaners last year, and give them a ring.
(3) Weigh the weaners you are hoping to sell or go for a truck weight when moving.
(4) Photograph, or even better, video the mob you are wanting to sell.
(5) Look at possible online options, e.g. Ag Online, Carrifields, StockX, bidr direct.
Remember it is very unlikely that any agent will want to visit the farm or have contact with you.
Covid-19 and the processing industry
To meet the new hygiene requirements it would appear that most plants have reduced capacity by something like 50% which, given Covid-19 along with the drought, mean it's become difficult to get animals to the works in some areas. To this end we suggest that you contact your agent as soon as possible with accurate stock tallies, class of stock, and when you would prefer them to be slaughtered. Talk to the meat company about what has changed and let them know about your present and future needs. And finally just a thought, but that company loyalty you have jealously guarded over the years, may now pay dividends.
Take care of each other.
Brian Doughty, Chair RWRST