Debated Three Moon feedlot gets tick of approval from North Burnett councillors

After lodging plans just before Christmas, a debated feedlot at Three Moon has now been ticked off by the North Burnett Regional Council.

A controversial feedlot at Three Moon, which could house 1450 cattle, has received a tick of approval by North Burnett Regional Council.

The application by residents Dale and Stephanie Olive who are seeking to expand their existing commercial beef cattle breeding enterprise at the Downies Road property.

According to a council report, the proposed use intends to “strengthen the existing activities by permitting increased site-specific growing and finishing activities of steers between 450-600kg”.

Neighbours of the development site had previously raised concerns to the council over potential dust, noise, pollution, animal rights, and odour.

One resident voiced support for the Olives’ in a letter to the council, saying “it’s so wonderful to see young local families taking the initiative and bringing more production and growth to the local area”.

Another expressed concern the feedlot could drive down property valuation in the area and waste run-off ending up in the local waterways, due to its proximity to Three Moon Creek and the Burnett Basin.

A submission from Animal Liberation Queensland said they “strongly oppose” the application, arguing the feedlot is potentially a threat to endangered and vulnerable wildlife species, lacks regard for animal welfare, lacks consultation with Traditional Land Owners, and could have adverse environmental impacts.

Campaign manager Amanda Holly said 26 threatened species, including the southern snapping turtle and eastern curlew, have been observed within 5km of the land in question.

A number of submissions also accused the developer of intentionally releasing the proposal during the Christmas period to “subvert a public process and proceed with a project with lesser degree of scrutiny”.

“This approach means fewer people learn about the proposal, relevant government personnel are on holidays, and it hard to for affected community members to obtain expert opinion, as most professionals are also on holiday,” a Three Moon resident wrote.

The application was passed in a majority vote by councillors, with all but Cr Melinda Jones and Cr Sue Payne voting in favour.