The TFGA is calling for livestock agents throughout the state to implement the displaying of liveweights

The TFGA is calling for livestock agents throughout the state to implement the displaying of liveweights of store cattle prior to sale.

TFGA Meat Council Chairman Brett Hall said, currently in Tasmania liveweights are not displayed at the saleyard, although this is common practice at the majority of mainland store cattle sales.

Producers should be given the option of having their store cattle weighed prior to sale. Killafaddy, Quoiba and Bridgewater saleyards all have the infrastructure in place to enable this to be immediately implemented.

"Displayed cattle weights at saleyards are a win-win for the whole industry. Vendors are paid for what they produce and buyers know exactly what they are paying for," said Mr Hall.

"Knowing how much is paid for and received at the saleyard per kilogram allows producers to determine their cost of production. Buyers have an accurate base to calculate the time and feed required to finish the livestock. This information is valuable for improving farm profitability."

The lack of information at the saleyard disadvantages Tasmanian meat producers. Agriculture is an ever changing industry and as such there is a need for all those involved in the industry to make changes and adaptations.

"Knowing the liveweights of cattle at sale provides a level playing field for both buyers and sellers and would allow for more accurate comparison of market prices."