IT IS research that cemented what anyone attending a livestock saleyard already knows - it's a massive social outing.
At pretty much any livestock market, there will be those working, those buying, those selling, and then those ... just checking the prices.
And within and across those groups, there is a lot of chatting and catching up.
It is an important outlet. It is no secret that farming can be somewhat isolated at times.
There is a lot of time spent in tractors, or fencing or following behind cattle - alone.
So there is definite value in days off the farm - and if you can combine them with a legitimate business reason, all the better!
Saleyards do bring a lot of value.
You can see how much a town buzzes when you drive in on a market day.
People drive in to town and often spend a few dollars while they're in.
While this may seem obvious, there is definitely value in research that backs this up.
Having quantifiable data can help in arguments about why we need to keep these resources operational.
The other thing that can bring optimism to regional Australia - rain! And widespread rain at the right time makes it even better.
READ MORE: Rejoice in SA as rain signals season break
There are reports from most areas of some very welcome totals. Hopefully this is a good sign for the season to come!
Elizabeth Anderson
Editor of Stock Journal.
Editor of Stock Journal.
