The Castlemaine–Maryborough Rail Trail (CMRT) committee released a statement on Wednesday 13 August confirming it had lodged a formal objection with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) opposing the planned development of a broiler farm at 705 Baringhup Road, Carisbrook. A case is being heard at VCAT after the property owner applied for a review, as a result of Central Goldfields Shire Council not making its decision within the required time. The VCAT hearing has reportedly been scheduled to continue in September.
CMRT stated that its submission had: “…cited major breaches of planning law, environmental risk, and direct conflict with a state-backed regional infrastructure project”. The organisation said the proposed broiler farm conflicts with — and threatens — various local and state government priorities, commitments and funding, including strategic plans for active transport, tourism, public health and the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid.
In relation to how a broiler farm might affect the Rail Trail, CMRT President Dr Janice Simpson said: “This is a major industrial facility planned near a public, family-friendly, heritage tourism trail. It’s completely incompatible with the values and vision for this region.” The Rail Train is planned to be a $35 million tourism and recreation initiative, projected to create 157 jobs annually and deliver $44.2 million in public benefit.
CMRT also acknowledged farming families on the Moolort Plains. Dr Simpson said: “Submissions made to VCAT by several farmers opposing yet another development were heart-wrenching, describing how both their working conditions and home lives have been affected by odour, dust, strong lights and heavy traffic.”
In its statement, CMRT called on VCAT to reject the permit in full, citing overwhelming public interest, ecological sensitivity, and long-term economic opportunity.
“In my opinion, the Moolort Plains is at risk of becoming a poultry corridor,” Dr Simpson said, “and we are paying the price—in health, lost tourism, and lost landscape.
This article appeared in Tarrangower Times, 22 August 2025.
