Saleyards showcase success with strongest annual sale on record

Published on 06 August 2026

With nearly 300,000 head of cattle sold in the 2025/26 financial year, Dalby Regional Saleyards continues to prove its leadership in Australia's livestock industry.

In 2025/26, the Dalby Regional Saleyards sold 298,499 head of cattle, surpassing the previous financial year's total of 230,706 by more than 67,000 head. The saleyards team reported handling an average of more than 6,000 head of cattle each week.

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Business Strategy and Economic Development, Councillor Megan James said this record achievement demonstrates the confidence the livestock industry continues to place in the Dalby Regional Saleyards.

"The Dalby Regional Saleyards is proving that some things really do get better with age, achieving record-breaking results 85 years after the first sale passed through the yards," Cr James said.

"With 49 weekly sales a year, supported by 680 selling pens and 1.6 hectares of shaded pens, the Dalby Regional Saleyards continues to invest in infrastructure that supports animal welfare and industry growth.

"Consistently ranking among Australia's top three performing saleyards, with 44 per cent of Australia's feedlots located within 200 kilometres of Dalby, the facility remains a critical industry asset.

"Our success is driven by our eight dedicated agents, as well as the producers, operators, and industry partners who contribute to every sale, bringing exceptional expertise, professionalism, and efficiency to the operation of the Dalby Regional Saleyards."

In honour of celebrating 85 years of operation, Council unveiled a new history wall and video, narrated by Western Downs Mayor Andrew Smith.

"The history wall and video showcase the stories and the milestones that have led to this major achievement. If you haven't had a chance, our weekly saleyards tour offers the perfect opportunity to check it out," Cr James said.

Tours of the Dalby Regional Saleyards run weekly from April to October. The last sale for 2026 will be Wednesday 16 December, returning for the first sale of 2027 on Wednesday 13 January.

View the Dalby Regional Saleyards: Come for the cattle, stay for the stories video here: https://wdrc.au/saleyards-85-years

Book a tour of the Dalby Regional Saleyards here: https://wdrc.au/saleyardtours

For more information contact Council on 1300 268 624 (COUNCIL) or visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au.

— Ends —

Media Contact:

Western Downs Regional Council Media Office                                                                07 4679 4265