State Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad raised the issue in parliament, after visiting the saleyards and speaking with farmers, agents and staff.
“More than 20,000 sheep and lambs are sold there every week,” Ms Broad said.
“Central Victoria experiences very hot weather in summer and icy conditions in winter.
“Bendigo is the last of regional Victoria’s key saleyards to be without a main roof structure. Producers and agents have been waiting years for action.”
Saleyards in Ballarat, Horsham, Shepparton and Hamilton all have roofs.
Ms Broad said the project had been highlighted by the Greater Bendigo City Council in its investment prospectus and concept designs had already been completed.
“As we look to grow renewable energy in the regions, this project also provides a great opportunity for solar power generation by installing panels on the roof and to harvest water,” she said.
“I note that the Horsham facility has been awarded for its solar power roofing project.
“It’s time the government demonstrated Victoria’s commitment to animal welfare by allocating funds to build a roof structure at the Bendigo Livestock Exchange.”
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