The arrival of AgQuip and two bumper cattle sales has boosted Gunnedah Shire's economy amidst flooding events.
Gunnedah Shire Council's Director Community and Development Andrew Johns said two record-breaking sales at Gunnedah Regional Saleyards, combined with AgQuip exhibitors and visitors staying in the Shire, have cushioned the local economy in an otherwise tough month.
"Gunnedah Stock and Station Agents Association yarded 3,569 cattle on 12 August and 4,345 cattle on 18 August, which are exceptionally high numbers for winter," Mr Johns said.
"With good competition from buyers and a lot of work from producers, transport operators, Saleyards staff and agents, these two sales have generated more than $15 million in livestock sales. The flow-on effects for the beef supply chain are a welcome validation of the recent investment in the upgrade of the Gunnedah Regional Saleyards."
The sales took place in the lead-up to ACM Rural Events' AgQuip, which showcased more than 800 exhibitors this year, bringing tens of thousands of visitors to the Shire.
Some of the larger displays took two to three weeks to set up and pack down, requiring support from multiple local businesses, and ensuring accommodation providers had a full house.
For the first time, smaller home-based businesses from the regional area benefited from the launch of a new precinct, Local to the Plains, which featured local food, arts and crafts, and services.
"The economic benefits of exhibitors alone in the AgQuip week are expected to contribute millions directly to our local economy, along with both the economic and social benefits of hosting visitors for the premier event," Mr Johns said.
"This will be a fillip for our businesses as they recover from the two local flood events in August."
Council recently released a local economic impact survey which aimed to assess costs incurred in preparation for flooding, and post-flood recovery.
"We know there was immediate effect on turn-over when staff and customers were unable to access sites, that the supply chain was impacted, and that some businesses suffered direct damage and costs," Mr Johns said.
"The Economy and Growth team at Council is looking to work with businesses across the Shire and will use the survey results to seek more support for the business community.
"As we head into spring and harvest season, Gunnedah Shire is continuing to celebrate agriculture and the vital role it plays in our economy."
Caption: Gunnedah Regional Saleyards hosted two record-breaking sales in the lead-up to AgQuip. This photo was taken at this week's sale (26 August, 2025).
