Millicent saleyard will hold its prime cattle sale on Wednesday afternoons instead of Thursdays from this week onward, in an effort to help boost yarding numbers during winter.
Wattle Range Council's Roger Babolka said many buyers suggested that there was merit in changing the market day to after the Mount Gambier sale on Wednesday.
"We get a lot of buyers coming from western Vic so having two markets on one day while there are travel restrictions will be helpful," he said.
Mr Babolka said a few weeks ago, saleyard manager Andrew Robinson chatted with agents, buyers and saleyard staff about the possibility of changing market days.
"Everyone involved seemed happy to give it a go," he said.
"The general consensus was that it would bring in greater yarding numbers and create more interest from buyers."
Mr Babolka also said by holding two markets on one day in the region, it would ease the pressure on buyers travelling to the area from interstate.
"When the season is good and things are tracking along nicely, producers are happy to stay overnight for the two sales but it was suggested that during the harder times and COVID-19 restrictions, one day would be helpful," he said.
Mr Babolka hoped the change would create a competitive buying environment and help put the market in good stead for the year.
The market day change will run until September/October depending on its success.
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