The review continues

We're continuing to review how the East Gippsland Livestock Exchange (EGLE) is managed, with the goal of finding the best way to support our local farming community, both now and into the future.

Through recent conversations and feedback from our community and stakeholders, we heard a strong message – people value local ownership and control, and a facility that continues to deliver tangible benefits to the local farming community.

We have thoughtfully considered recommendations from the economic consultancy AEC Group, which has assisted in shaping the upcoming steps of the review.

As a result, we are now taking a closer look at three options for the way the saleyards could be managed in the future:

• Establishing a Council-owned subsidiary.
• Introducing a hybrid model that includes both Council and contractor involvement.
• Continuing the current Council-managed model.

This next stage of work will help us to understand the implications of each option before making any decisions.

Summary of community feedback - what we heard about each model:

Subsidiary model
Participants saw this option as business-like and efficient, while keeping it Council owned. This may help to manage costs and open ways to generate income. It also allows for quicker decision-making and more flexibility in how the site is run. One significant advantage mentioned was the opportunity to select a dedicated and talented board consisting of local industry specialists, which will help keep the saleyards in tune with the community's needs.

Hybrid model
Community input indicates that this model has the potential to enhance the management of sale days by incorporating outside expertise. More broadly, it combines Council’s overall direction with the flexibility and experience of contractors. This could help the saleyards access new funding opportunities, trial new technologies, and reach more buyers and sellers through contractor networks. It also supports resilience by sharing management responsibilities across different parties.

Current Council-managed model
Many people told us they value the current model for its stability, transparency, and local accountability. It’s seen as convenient and cost-effective, and the familiarity of the current setup is appreciated. Community feedback indicates that this model meets the needs of the farming community.

We will keep working through the details of each option, making sure that any future decision is based on what we have heard from the community, expert advice, and a clear understanding of what is best for the long-term future of the saleyards and our agricultural sector.