History
Earliest records show the Corowa Saleyards has been operating for over 100 years at its current location. The site was opened on 24th February 1911 after the former Corowa Shire Council purchased the land for the purpose of operating a sheep saleyards. Below is an extract from the The Border Morning Mail and Riverina Times, reporting on when the site was opened.
From The Border Morning Mail and Riverina Times, Friday February 24, 1911
The new saleyards at Corowa, erected by the Municipal Council, were opened yesterday by the Mayor (Alderman King) in the presence of a large gathering. Mr. R. T. Ball, M.L.A., complimented the council on the erection of the saleyards, and the selection of the site. Following the resumption of big areas of land in the district, the saleyards should be, he said, one of the council’s best assets.
The saleyards are located on a granite slope on the Albury Road, about 1½ miles from the town. The site is an ideal one as regards formation and drainage. Their contemplated erection has extended over five years. Some time ago a referendum of the ratepayers was taken on the question of erecting saleyards, and the result is that they are now built. In obtaining the site the council had experienced considerable trouble. In area it is 28 acres, and the land extends across the railway line. The purchase money was £420. A number of substantial pens has been built, several offices are also to be built, and all together it is proposed to spend £1,100. The cost is being defrayed by a loan struck for five years, the amount of the loan being £1,380, bearing 5 per cent interest The loan – which is not a current one – was provided
by the Bank of Australasia , and has already been reduced by £280. It is anticipated that with the loan rate and the saleyards revenue the loan will be liquidated in three or four years.The sales were conducted by no fewer than seven auctioneering firms and agents.
Federation Council is working with the Corowa Historical Society to trace important information and history of how the saleyards have evolved over the years. More information to come.
Corowa Saleyards Agricultural Hub Official opening
The $11.6M upgrade of the Corowa Saleyards & Agricultural Hub, one of NSW’s largest sheep markets, was officially opened by NSW Minister Tara Moriarty on Thursday, 28 March, 2024.
The upgrade was jointly funded by the NSW Government ($10.1M) and the Federation Council ($1.5M). It provides a safer, more efficient, and more attractive facility for livestock buyers, sellers and the general public.
The Corowa Saleyards redevelopment project was a significant project for Council to deliver and has resulted in Stage 1 of the overall masterplan for the site coming to fruition.
The project has comprised of four distinct work packages which are being delivered concurrently:
- Stage 1 Effluent system upgrades
- Stage 2 Civil works: stormwater basin, site entry, carpark, circulation road, truck wash
- Stage 3 Administration Building and Multipurpose Learning Centre
- Stage 4 Roof structure, roof stormwater collection, solar PV system
This upgrade provides a strong focus on animal welfare, environmental responsibility, growth, and safety.
Images above L to R: Federation Council General Manager Adrian Butler, NSW Minister Tara Moriarty