Applications for two new homes in Wangoom and Crossley dominated the Moyne council meeting this week, splitting councillors in one case. 

Councillor Colin Ryan warned lifestyle seekers would undermine valuable farmland if council kept approving homes outside townships. 

Shire planners urged the chamber to reject both applications. 

A home application in Crossley raised the ire of Cr Ryan, who said he doubted the legitimacy of a farm plan to rear calves on the small plot. 

“The matter I look at is a classic example of why a lifestyle block should not be permitted in a farm zone. Our planning laws are there for a purpose, it’s to protect farming land,” Cr Ryan said. 

“It’s going to be developed on high-quality land.” 

But Cr Jim Doukas rejected the concerns, labelling them bewildering. “To suggest it won’t work as a farm is ridiculous,” Cr Doukas said. 

Cr Ryan said it was “death by a thousand cuts”. 

“It is a significant dairy area and worthy of our full protection,” he said. 

The motion was passed with the support of six councillors. 

Another motion to allow a home on a horse breeding and training property in Wangoom was backed unanimously.  

Cr Jill Parker supported the Grassmere-Wangoom application. 

“All councillors went out for a site visit. The plan that has been submitted stacks up. It looks very well designed for an agricultural pursuit,” Cr Parker said.