The Wagga Wagga Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC) has taken a major step forward in the transition to electronic identification (eID) for sheep and goats, successfully scanning nearly 15,000 individual electronic identification devices during last months record sale.
Of the 77,127 sheep and lambs yarded at the sale, 18.8 percent were identified with eID devices—an impressively high figure considering only lambs born after 1 January 2025 are currently required to have an eID device.
The process was carried out efficiently, with minimal errors and no delays, demonstrating the professionalism and preparedness of Wagga's stock and station agents
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Director Sheep & Goat Traceability, Kiowa Fenner, said Wagga has demonstrated what can be achieved through strong industry collaboration and commitment.
"The agents at Wagga LMC have shown exceptional leadership and professionalism in embracing the eID system, not just in meeting expectations, but exceeding them," Ms Fenner said.
"Their success demonstrates the strength of partnerships between government and industry and reinforces our shared goal of building a modern, resilient traceability system for the future.
"Wagga is the largest saleyard in the southern hemisphere, and their agents have set a high benchmark for eID implementation across the state."
The scanning was completed entirely by local agents without direct support from NSW DPIRD, Local Land Services (LLS) or software providers on the day, highlighting the agents' dedication and competence following months of preparation and training.
Ms Fenner said this level of performance speaks to the agents' willingness to embrace the new system and their investment in getting it right.
"DPIRD's Sheep and Goat eID team continues to work closely with saleyards, agents and producers to support the staged implementation of electronic identification across New South Wales, ensuring a smooth transition for the industry at every stage".
The positive scanning results from the recent Wagga sale are an encouraging sign of industry preparedness ahead of the next major eID implementation milestone in NSW. From 1 January 2027, all sheep and goats must have an electronic identification (eID) device prior to movement, and these early outcomes demonstrate strong progress toward that goal.
