Councillor challenges Surf Coast Shire ‘secrecy’ on cattle farm

A SURF Coast councillor has questioned a council officers’ decision to allow a Mount Duneed farm, with 450 head of cattle, to operate without a planning permit.

Councillor Heather Wellington (pictured) said there was a “genuine question” as to whether the activity at 105 Dickins Road was considered intensive animal production, which would require a planning permit. The Shire concluded that the activity was grazing animal production, which is unregulated under the planning scheme.

Surf Coast Shire CEO Keith

Baillie said officers’ assessment of the activity was informed by “a sound understanding of the relevant planning guidelines and Agriculture Victoria advice”.

“Monitoring of the land use activity is important to affirm ongoing compliance with the planning requirements,” Mr Baillie said.

“This monitoring is ongoing and some further consideration is being made regarding some planning matters and public health impacts.”

Cr Wellington said shire officers refused to provide her with “critical” information about the decision, on the basis it relates to a “compliance matter”.

“This is a question of interpretation of a term in the planning scheme. Shire officers have decided that this activity cannot or should not be regulated,” she said.

“I am simply questioning that decision. Verbal and general assurances are not sufficient in such circumstances.”

Cr Wellington said she had been notified that the farm had carried 450 head of cattle with regular turnover for months, and that a road, cattle yards and a large gravelled area on the property may require planning permission.

She also cited concerns about “unreasonable” amenity impacts such as odour and noise and potential environmental damage to Thompson Creek as a result of its operations.

Cr Wellington put a notice of motion before council on Tuesday, seeking councillors’ support for an independent report on the matter and a referral to VCAT for determination.

But only one other councillor, Cr James McIntyre, supported her motion.