Along with a secure and transparent means of trading stock, the important role of the mart in the rural community was evident throughout the fodder crisis earlier this year.

The new regulations introduced under the Property Services Act have increased the level of discipline around credit terms. However, it is a difficult balancing act for mart managers in relation to accommodating the demands of a diverse client base. The stipulation that cattle traded through marts 70 days prior to slaughter are not eligible for the 12c/kg QPS bonus is a major issue for marts.

If efficiency gives factory agents buying stock directly off farm a major competitive advantage and is a barrier for farmers wishing to sell through the transparent auction ring.

The practice is in sharp contrast to Britain where fat stock sales are attended by factory agents buying stock for direct slaughter.