Changes to Strategic Cropping Land legislation passed by the Queensland Government last month will allow the region’s piggery operators to expand more easily.
On Wednesday the South Burnett Regional Council voted unanimously to approve the expansion of a Wooroolin piggery from 1600 to 8000 standard pig units.
Under previous legislation, the piggery owner would have faced $48,000 in application fees.
But under the revised legislation, growers wishing to develop or expand a piggery can now do so using the processes that were in place before Strategic Cropping Land legislation was passed.
The Sustainable Regulation 2009 was amended last month to exclude piggeries, poultry and egg production developments on designated or potential Strategic Cropping Land from assessment.
The change brings them into line with existing exemptions for feedlots.
Mayor Wayne Kratzmann said that piggeries were a big industry in the region and could become even bigger in the future now that restrictions have been eased.
But he emphasised the community should not be concerned about the possible emergence of “mega-piggeries”.
“Council will put conditions in place to ensure these developments are carried out responsibly and don’t damage community amenity or the environment.”
Cr Cheryl Dalton also thought the changes were positive.
“I know there might be some objections to piggeries of this size but we will not let them hurt the environment or community.”
She praised Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney and Member for Nanango Deb Frecklingon for their assistance in getting the changes passed, which had come about after representations from Council.
Information about the new Strategic Cropping Land rules can be found on the Department Of Natural Resources website.
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