Colac Otway Shire Council will wind back increases to some fees at the Colac Regional Saleyards in a step to reduce costs on drought-hit farmers.
Councillors have approved a proposal to wind back the increases to fees that were made as part of the recent 2025-26 budget process for sale types to 2024-2025 levels.
The change follows a request from the Colac Regional Saleyards Advisory Committee for Council to review the fees and charges in light of the current challenges being experienced by our farmers.
Infrastructure and Environment General Manager Doug McNeill said the change applied to fees for the five most common transactions at the saleyards for farmers trading stock.
"Our farmers have been facing severe drought over the past two years, and keeping fees low will help support the shire's agricultural sector and the viability of farming enterprises," Mr McNeill said.
"This change will also ensure the saleyards maintain their reputation as an ideal place to sell cattle," he said.
"Council remains committed to supporting the local agricultural sector and ensuring the sustainability of the Colac Regional Saleyards."
It is estimated the fee reduction will cost Council about $20,000 to $25,000 a year.
