Council has been seeking someone to take over the facility, via expressions of interest, since regular sales ceased in November last year.
As a result, council has announced the yards will be closed at the end of October.
While council could have acted immediately, it has deferred the closure to allow for the 25th anniversary John Wells Memorial Jerilderie Sheep Sale to continue this year.
Mayor Ruth McRae said the decision “hasn’t been an easy one”, and also highlighted that council has no plans to dispose of the saleyards land in the immediate future.
“While the long‑term closure of the saleyards remains necessary due to the significant investment needed to meet modern safety and animal welfare standards, we recognise just how important the saleyards have been to our community,” Cr McRae said.
“This (final sale) will be a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on decades of history and connection, and celebrate the important role the saleyards have played in shaping the town.
“It’s about making sure this legacy is acknowledged, and marking this chapter in a way that reflects just how much the saleyards have meant to the town and the surrounding area over the years.”
Council thanked the many producers, buyers, transporters, volunteers and staff who contributed to the saleyards over the years, acknowledging their role in shaping the region’s agricultural identity.
To support the final sale, Murrumbidgee Council will invest $15,000 in minor works to improve safety and usability.
Yard fees will be set at $1.50 per head, with Elders engaged to operate the facility for the event.
Council said it will continue to explore future options for the saleyards site, once infrastructure is dismantled after the final sale.
The closure of the saleyards does not affect the truck wash facility, which will continue to operate at the site.
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