Last sale at Latrobe Street

THE Ballarat Stock & Station Agents Association President Xavier Bourke was on hand for the last sales held at Latrobe Street last week, saying he feels apprehensive about the move to Miners Rest.

While sellers will have day offices at the new location, the business around Latrobe Street, which counted on saleyard traffic to stay viable may find it harder and could even struggle, especially the food outlets and pubs.

“The yards move and industry follows,” Mr Bourke said.

“The traders who counted on the offshoots of the sale yards will be sad to see them go the most, as farmers and transport carriers come into the town they use the business in Latrobe Street, whether it be fish and chips or a beer or even bearings.

“The new saleyards have been well promoted throughout Victoria and the farmers are aware that it is a new venue the costs will be dearer for the sellers and agents and we hope that this venue will bring more selling stock and better prices to make up the incurred costs. We also hope that it delivers what the old centre has in the past.”

The BSSAA consists of five agency representatives – Elders Rural Services, Landmark, TB White & Sons, Charles Stewart & Co and HF Richardson. Together the association conducts weekly prime markets for both sheep and cattle.

The moving of stock sale centres is not new as the early farmers and miners were attending them at sites as close as the Bridge Mall and a handful of other sites around Ballarat until a permanent site was established where Harris Scarfe is located today.

About a century ago the City of Ballarat decided to build new yards, ‘way out in the country’ in Latrobe Street, and history is repeating itself in the livestock business.

“I don’t think it will take another 100 years before a new location is wanted after Miners Rest,” Mr Bourke said.

“Most probably in 40-50 years’ time, and who knows where? We hope this new venue will be better for all the stakeholders and farmers have said they will support the move, so everything should be prosperous for all.”