Sheep dairy farm plans draw opposition

The proposal to the the Surf Coast Shire would see the establishment of a facility that will be able to hold up to 14,000 sheep at any time.

Among these will be about 6,000 lactating ewes, whose milk will predominantly be processed in powdered products.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have voiced their opposition to the farm, describing it as “cruel and environmentally damaging”.

They have also formed a petition with more than 10,000 signatures on it urging the council to reject the plan.

Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick supports the petition, saying the farm would be both cruel to the animals and damaging to the environment.

“Intensive farming is not just cruel to animals — it intensifies the climate emergency. Building new factory farms is the last thing we should be doing right now.”

The proposal does not breach the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for sheep.

Shire general manager of culture and community Chris Pike said the council welcomed feedback through their planning process.

“We recognise that there can be many views, and sometimes strong views, within our communities.

“Council has a strong record in welcoming people to come forward and present ideas through petitions, online forums, surveys, community meetings, written correspondence and direct contact.”

The public exhibition phase was initially set to end on October 31, having begun on October 8.

However, the plans will be available for viewing both online and at the council offices until they go before council, which will not be until December at the earliest. If people are unable to lodge a submission during the public exhibition phase, they can still contact council planners to voice their concerns.