Coming as a major boost for our local livestock industry, we are proud to announce the completion of a $9.5 million upgrade to the Kempsey Regional Saleyards. The saleyards are a vital asset for our community and the broader Mid-North Coast livestock sector.
This project was funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund. The redevelopment received $9,421,940 from the Commonwealth and NSW Governments with Kempsey Shire Council contributing $176,397.
The saleyard generates more than of $30 million in sales annually from about 30,000 head of cattle sold and these facility improvements protect that economic activity into the future.
Officially opened this week by NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty, the upgraded facility is now better equipped to deliver lasting economic, social, and structural benefits to our community. The saleyards is more than just a marketplace, it's a meeting place and a modern piece of infrastructure that supports animal welfare, community resilience, and connection.
Minister Moriarty shared praises for the upgraded facilities, saying "This investment isn't just about the saleyards; it's about the future of Kempsey. Strong infrastructure like this boosts local jobs, attracts investment and keeps our livestock industry thriving."
During the May 2025 floods, the saleyards served as a lifesaving refuge and evacuation centre for over 1,100 head of cattle threatened by rising waters of the Macleay River. In the weeks that followed, the facility hosted its largest-ever cattle sale, with more than 2,800 stock sold, helping producers recover and rebuild.
Mayor Kinne Ring shared the immense value of this updated resource, saying "In times of natural disaster, the saleyards have proven to be a vital refuge for livestock, as we saw multiple times this year. These improvements ensure that role continues, while elevating the facility to a standard our producers truly deserve."
Key upgrades
The redevelopment focused on efficiency, animal welfare, and capacity with major improvements including:
- A new roof over the yards
- Soft flooring for cattle comfort
- A modern sale office and selling arena
- Additional cattle yards, upgraded holding pens and a scale house
- Double-storey truck loading ramps
- Purpose-built S-shaped cattle run
- And a new kiosk, amenities, viewing grandstand and landscaping
These upgrades enhance the experience for vendors and buyers while ensuring the facility meets future industry needs.
Ian Argue, Director of Kempsey Stock & Land, shared the impact of the upgrades, saying: "The new facility has been greatly accepted by sellers and buyers alike. It is a major asset for the town, bringing big dollars into the valley and providing local employment."
Council is proud to have played a key role in delivering this project. The upgraded saleyards are a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration between government, industry, and community.
We look forward to seeing the Kempsey Regional Saleyards continue to thrive as a cornerstone of our local economy and a symbol of resilience and innovation in our Macleay Valley.
