The figures have been revealed to be at record levels: Store cattle 78,622 head; Prime cattle 191,375 head; Calves 1456 head; Sheep and lambs 1,588,704; Goats 12,447.

The 2014/2015 yardings are also off to a flying start with cattle in particular producing record numbers.

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The $4.2million upgrade and expansion to the Dubbo Sheep and Lamb selling facility is currently on schedule and within budget.

The extras will include additional ramps extra lighting, security cameras and a large well appointed truck parking area.

When finished the additional infrastructure will be capable of holding a further 9000 sheep and lambs.

The boost to the local economy has been profound as most of the work has been contracted to local firms.

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An independent review of the efficiency and effectiveness of the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (DRLM) has been carried out and their report submitted to council.

The Saleyard Advisory Committee in conjunction with council will shortly examine the report and make recommendations and set priorities for various actions to be taken.

No doubt infrastructure upgrade and a better stock handling process will all come from the discussion.

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One problem Dubbo Saleyards has on a regular basis is the unloading and spelling of livestock from other centres which are in transit.

Quite often carriers are trying to unload or reload these stock (mainly cattle) while Dubbo agents are either conducting a sale or trying to get ready for a sale.

This at times can be a major inconvenience and occasionally a lightning rod for tension.

Council are toying with the idea of a new specifically designated area for such cattle.

Council at that stage should have a lock down situation which would allow council to charge an applicable fee for those companies who avail themselves of this service.

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Mr Ken Rogers who is Director Corporate Development for Dubbo City Council has the care of our saleyards among his many portfolios.

In a recent conversation he expanded at great length on his vision for the selling centre which if he gets council backing will see Dubbo as a selling centre go to even greater heights.

he is a man of great expertise and will do his level best to have Dubbo Saleyards at all times on the front foot.

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The staff of Peter Milling and Co drew my attention to the Inaugural Central West Australian White Ram Sale to be held at Dubbo Showground on October 8 starting at 1.30pm.

The offering will comprise 60 quality stud and selected rams.

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After many years of drought and dry times the Coonamble district finally have the start of a season.

With this in mind the Coonamble agents will conduct a store cattle sale on Wednesday September 24 and a prime cattle sale on Friday September 26.

The agents would appreciate local support for both these sales to reinvigorate Coonamble as once again a major livestock selling centre.