Bairnsdale Saleyards Cover

Working alongside Proway, Bairnsdale Engineering delivered a large-scale roof structure over the new sheep yards at the Bairnsdale Saleyards. The project was designed to provide reliable weather protection while maintaining the functionality and efficiency required for modern livestock handling facilities.

The completed structure spans 81.95m in length, with bay sizes varying from 7.9m to 11m. This flexible bay configuration was carefully designed to align with pen layouts and walkways, ensuring the roof structure integrated seamlessly with the operational requirements of the saleyards.

A double skillion roof design, comprising 17.9m and 15.3m spans, provides a practical high-clearance solution across the yard. Where the two roofs meet, a vent gap allows for effective natural airflow and ventilation—an important consideration in livestock environments where air movement helps maintain animal welfare and improves working conditions.

The use of circular hollow section (CHS) columns were used throughout the structure eliminated the need for wall bracing, creating open, unobstructed bays along the entire length of the building and allowing for flexible yard configurations.

The universal beam rafters, created a strong, high-clearance structure while maintaining a clean environment and streamlined appearance. This approach also helped minimise bird roosting opportunities, reducing ongoing maintenance and hygiene issues often associated with large agricultural roof structures.

Rafter and purlin overhangs provided additional weather protection for livestock and operators while allowing the column footprint to work around the pen layout, maintaining functionality within the yard.

The result is a durable, practical structure that improves both the usability and longevity of the sheep yard facilities while supporting efficient livestock handling operations.