Saleyards Australia, Media Release, 4 February 2026
Saleyards Australia has today announced The Mustering Yard Cafe at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange as the 2026 Saleyards Australia Canteen of the Year, following a national public vote conducted throughout January, which attracted more than 1,600 votes from across Australia.
All saleyard canteens nationally were eligible for the award, with members of the public invited to vote for their favourite canteen based on their own experiences. The strong response reflects the value placed on saleyard canteens.
From early morning starts to long sale days, canteens remain the heart of saleyards nationwide, providing food, connection and a place for conversation.
Led by Lyn and her dedicated team, The Mustering Yard Cafe stood out among canteens across the country. Voters consistently praised the cafe for its home-style cooking, friendly and welcoming service, and strong sense of community.
Signature menu items such as the cafes well known rissoles, fresh baking, hearty breakfasts and generous meals were frequently highlighted, along with the pride, care and consistency shown on every sale day.
Many voters described the cafe as “the heart of the saleyards” — a place where people feel welcomed, known and well looked after.
Saleyards Australia Executive Officer Amy Perfrement said the public nature of the vote made the recognition particularly meaningful.
“This award is especially significant because it is driven entirely by the public. More than 1,600 people took the time to vote for the saleyard canteen they value most, and the results show just how closely contested the competition was, with several other saleyards only narrowly missing the Top 10.”
Top 10 Saleyard Canteens – 2026
Saleyards Australia recognises the following Top 10 highest-voted saleyard canteens nationally, acknowledging the quality, dedication and community contribution of canteen operators across Australia:
- Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NSW)
- Central Victoria Livestock Exchange (Vic)
- Mount Gambier & District Stock Saleyard (SA)
- Cowra Regional Livestock Selling Centre (NSW)
- Eastern Victoria Livestock Exchange (Vic)
- Naracoorte Regional Livestock Exchange (SA)
- Central West Livestock Exchange (NSW)
- South Eastern Livestock Exchange (Vic)
- Dalrymple (HM Clarke) Saleyards (Qld)
- Dunedoo Saleyards (NSW)
Saleyards Australia congratulates all nominated canteens and thanks everyone who participated in the vote. The close results and strong engagement reinforce the important role saleyard canteens play in the social and operational fabric of Australia’s saleyards.
