Murrindindi Shire CEO, Craig Lloyd, today issued the following statement regarding the “Dude Ranch” [Balaclava] proposed development.
Murrindindi Shire Council understands the community has concerns about the current use and proposed development of the property known as ‘Balaclava’ in Murrindindi. While the initial planning application for the development of this site included a shooting facility and residential hotel, the applicant has since made amendments to the application and it no longer includes a shooting facility.
The application is likely to go on public exhibition in the near future – we will keep you updated on this. Council will not be making any decisions about the application until the community has had the opportunity to have their say.
Separate to the planning application, we have also heard from community members who continue to be concerned about ongoing reports of shooting on the property. Council has been in discussion with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) about this for some time. We condemn any illegal shooting of animals.
DELWP and the Police are the agencies empowered to investigate and intervene on any allegations of illegal hunting and firearms matters.
– Murrindindi Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Craig Lloyd.
