Vegan protesters take aim at planned expansion at Goondiwindi piggery

Animal activists are campaigning against the farm’s proposal to expand its pig operation, claiming the development could lead to respiratory illness in children at a nearby school.

SP Northern Farming are seeking approval to expand their Lundavra piggery. Photo: iStock

Animal activists are campaigning to stop a Goondiwindi piggery’s planned expansion, claiming it could have detrimental health effects on children and the animals.

Animal Liberation Queensland is protesting against SP Northern Farming, which is seeking approval to expand its Lundavra piggery from 76,820 standard pig units to 136,320.

In documents submitted to the Goondiwindi Regional Council, SP Northern Farming said the farm would be able produce 3325 weaners each week under the proposed conditions.

The report stated that the distance between the proposed piggery expansion sheds and Lundavra State School was compliant with guidelines.

ALQ’s campaign manager Amanda Holly said the organisation was concerned doubling the size of the piggery would have a negative impact on the health of children.

“There has been a lot of studies about the health impacts of factory farms in close proximity to school, proving that it can cause respiratory illness,” she said.

“The piggery is only 5km from Lundavra State School so the kids are going to be able to smell the piggery.”

The protesters have called on the Goondiwindi Regional Council to stop the development from going ahead.

“Economic industry shouldn’t outline the importance of protecting vulnerable children,” Ms Holly said.

The petition, addressed to the council, has garnered over 2000 submissions with public consultation closing Tuesday.

Goondiwindi Mayor Lawrence Springborg said the family behind the business application has contributed to the region through local employment and community support.

“They’re exemplary citizens, highly regarded locally, have lived here for some time and employ a lot of people,” he said.

“Regardless of all of those things, we make our decision based on the merit of the application and we are guided in approval through proper and due planning guidelines.”

SP Northern Farming and their managing company SunPork declined to comment.